What is the size limit for Gag Grouper in Florida?

The current FWC size limit for Gag Grouper in Florida is 24" TL minimum. Always confirm at MyFWC.com before keeping a fish — regulations can change on short notice.

Gag Grouper in Florida — Regs, Seasons & Tips

Q: What is the bag limit for Gag Grouper in Florida?

The current FWC daily bag limit for Gag Grouper in Florida is Gulf: 2 per person/day within 4-grouper aggregate. Atlantic: 1 gag or black grouper per person within 3-grouper aggregate, plus 2 gag/vessel/day. Charter captain and crew: zero..

Q: When is Gag Grouper season in Florida?

Gulf state waters: Sept 1 – 14, 2026 only; Gulf federal waters: Sept 1 – Oct 1, 2026 (verify at NOAA); Atlantic state and federal waters: See FWC — restricted; 1 fish within 3-grouper aggregate, 2 gag per vessel/day. Season windows vary by FWC management region.

Current FWC regulations

Season

Gulf state waters

Sept 1 – 14, 2026 only

Gulf federal waters

Sept 1 – Oct 1, 2026 (verify at NOAA)

Atlantic state and federal waters

See FWC — restricted; 1 fish within 3-grouper aggregate, 2 gag per vessel/day

Size limit

24" TL minimum

Bag limit

Gulf: 2 per person/day within 4-grouper aggregate. Atlantic: 1 gag or black grouper per person within 3-grouper aggregate, plus 2 gag/vessel/day. Charter captain and crew: zero.

Legal gear

Circle hooks required when using natural bait for reef fish beyond state waters. Descending device required.

Notes

Very short state season. Gag population still rebuilding — expect regulations to remain conservative. Always verify current-year dates.

These limits are summarized from public FWC data and reviewed monthly. Florida regulations can change on short notice — always verify at MyFWC.com/Fishing before keeping a fish.

Best time to fish

2026 Gulf state waters: September 1 – 14 only. Verify federal season separately.

Best baits and tackle

Live pinfish, mullet, sardines, cigar minnows. Dead bait: whole squid, bonito chunks. Deep jigs on structure.

Where to find them

Ledges, rocks, wrecks, and hard bottom in 50-200 ft. Move to deeper water in cooler months.

Sources

FWC — Groupers

Cross-referenced with the FWC Saltwater Regulations and FWC Freshwater Regulations. Reviewed July 2026.

Species photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons contributors and public agencies (USFWS / NOAA / state fisheries). Licensed CC-BY, CC-BY-SA, or public domain.