Is gray triggerfish open in the Gulf?
Live status for · rules verified 2026-08-14
Know the fish
Oval, leathery gray fish with a small mouth of powerful teeth and a lockable dorsal 'trigger' spine. Galveston fish commonly 1–4 lb; good ones push 5+ lb.
When they bite
Available much of the year but the recreational season is restrictive and set annually (closed for stretches). Best on calm, clear days; they bite well midday around structure.
Where & how
Where: Reefs, wrecks, rigs, and rubble/hard bottom from nearshore artificial reefs out to offshore banks, ~40–250 ft. They hold tight to and often just above structure.
How: Small hooks and small, tough baits fished tight to structure. They are notorious bait-stealers — snug a small circle hook into a squid strip and set on weight. Sabiki-style rigs and small jigs also work.
Verified spots for the whole coast → · Today's live bite scores →
Fish it with a verified captain
Every captain on IronJetty is licensed, insured and vetted — and their calendars show live availability.
Find a verified trip