Is gag grouper season open in the Gulf?
Live status for · rules verified 2026-08-14
Know the fish
Streamlined gray grouper with wavy, marbled 'kissing-lips' markings and a notched dorsal; often confused with black grouper. Galveston fish commonly 8–25 lb, larger possible on wrecks and deep structure.
When they bite
Best during the annually-announced recreational gag season in Gulf federal waters — OPEN only Sep 1-Oct 1, 2026. Calm days for offshore runs; steady bite on structure.
Where & how
Where: Wrecks, rocks, ledges, and rigs from mid-shelf out to offshore banks, ~80–300 ft. They favor high-relief structure and larger wrecks.
How: Heavy bottom tackle with large live or cut baits pinned near the structure; lock the drag and turn their head immediately. Slow-pitch and speed jigs draw reaction strikes near wrecks.
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