Goliath Grouper
Epinephelus itajara
FR Mérou géant · ES Mero Goliat · PT Mero-gigante
Also known as: JewfishGuasaItajaraCernia GiganteMero GoliatMérou géantMero-gigante
Reef/KelpBoat
Reef
Score
—
Prime time
Year-round; daylight structure fishing
Depth
0–100m
Platform
Boat
Season
JanMarJunSepDec
Peak Jul–SepGood May–Oct
Depth range
0–100mDeep
Best fishing techniques
Bottom fishing / ledgering60%
Vertical / shore jigging60%
Preferred seabed
RockMixed
Findr bio
Dawn/dusk mega-structure specialist. Not for keeping — catch and admire only...
How to catch
Favourite hangouts
EstuaryPier harborShallow waterWreck reef
Recommended baits
Fish baitsSquid
Diet
CrabSmall fishShrimpOctopus
Effective techniques
Bottom Fishing
Gear
Best times
DawnDayDuskFlooding tide
I can top 800 pounds, one of the biggest reef fish alive — protected now, so admire and release.
Field notes
Where to find them
Warm western Atlantic reefs, wrecks, bridge pylons
Where they hang out
Major structure, 10–50 m
Prime time
Year-round; daylight structure fishing
Tide game
Low to moderate
What they're into
Large live or slab baits
Temperature vibe
Prefers 22–28°C
Fave weather
Calm-to-moderate seas needed for controlled fights
Fun fact about me
Reef heavyweight with a bass drum for a swim bladder — you'll hear me before you see me.
Dinner material?
2/10Best left in the water
Play by the rules
Protected in US waters — catch-and-release only, check NOAA rulesNOAA Fisheries
Looking after them
Vulnerable