Scamp Grouper
Mycteroperca phenax
Offshore TABLE: Excellent DIFFICULTY
Slender grouper, tan-to-brown with dark spots and 'broom-tail' fin tips; prized among groupers. Offshore fish are commonly 3-12 lb.
⚖ Texas & federal limits
Bag, size and season rules apply — several offshore species run on federal seasons that open and close by the year. Check the current TPWD Outdoor Annual →.
Bag, size and season rules apply — several offshore species run on federal seasons that open and close by the year. Check the current TPWD Outdoor Annual →.
On the water
WhenAround the year on open structure, but subject to seasonal federal closures; best on live bait over prime hard bottom.WhereOffshore reefs, ledges, banks, and wrecks over hard bottom in 100-300+ ft; holds tight to structure and relief.HowDrop live or fresh dead bait to the bottom on hard structure and be ready to crank hard the instant it eats - let it get back into the rocks and it's gone.BehaviorStructure-bound ambush predator that tucks into ledges and reef and rockets out to inhale baitfish and squid passing over the top.The fightA hard, immediate dive for the rocks; win the first few cranks or lose the fish.
Baits that work
- Live pinfish, cigar minnows, and hardtails
- Fresh cut squid and cut bait
- Large jigs tipped with bait
Tackle
Rod & reelHeavy 6-7 ft conventional bottom rodLine60-80 lb braidLeader80-130 lbTerminal7/0-10/0 circleRigFish-finder / knocker rig
The bait clock
☀ DawnLive bait to the bottom on hard structure
Groupers feed early over reef and ledges.
☼ MiddayLive or fresh dead bait on the bottom
Daytime bottom fishing over prime hard bottom.
☾ DuskLive bait tight to structure
Evening feed before dark.
[{'months': [3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11], 'note': 'Fishable much of the year where open - watch for federal grouper closures.'}]
Heavy tackle and a fast reel: the fight is won in the first seconds.
Don’t confuse it with
Scamp show fine dark spots over tan and a ragged broom tail; gags marble in boxes over gray.
Not sure? Point the Fish ID camera at it →
Keep or release
Handling & releaseDeep-water fish - barotrauma is likely; a descending device or venting tool is required gear for release.On the tableWhite, sweet, and flaky - many rate scamp the best-eating grouper.As baitNo - premium table fish.
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