Leopard Grouper (Cabrilla)
Mycteroperca rosacea
FR Mérou léopard · ES Mero leopardo · PT Garoupa-leopardo
Also known as: Golden GrouperCabrilla SardineraMérou LéopardMero leopardoMérou léopardGaroupa-leopardo
Reef/KelpBoat
Reef
Score
—
Prime time
Year-round; daylight structure fishing
Depth
10–80m
Platform
Boat
Season
JanMarJunSepDec
Peak Apr–MayGood Mar–Jul
Depth range
10–80mDeep
Best fishing techniques
Bottom fishing / ledgering60%
Vertical / shore jigging60%
Preferred seabed
Rock
Findr bio
Sea of Cortez ambusher—sunlit stones, fast darts, instant brickings.
How to catch
Favourite hangouts
Rocky shoreWreck reefShallow water
Recommended baits
PrawnsSquidFish baits
Diet
KrillHerringAnchovySmall fish
Effective techniques
JiggingTrollingBottom Fishing
Gear
Best times
DawnDusk
Baja’s beach-fiesta favorite — best grilled whole, say locals.
Field notes
Where to find them
Baja California and Gulf of California reefs
Where they hang out
Reef structure, moderate depth
Prime time
Year-round; daylight structure fishing
Tide game
Moderate
What they're into
Crab, shrimp, squid strips near structure
Temperature vibe
Prefers 18–26°C
Fave weather
Moderate seas workable
Fun fact about me
Baja’s beach-fiesta favorite — best grilled whole, say locals.
Dinner material?
8/10Solid dinner choice
Play by the rules
Size/bag limits common — check Mexican fisheries rulesCONAPESCA / Mexican fisheries authority
Looking after them
Near Threatened