Bradenton Gag Grouper Fishing Adventure
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
Exclusive inshore gag grouper fishing during prime seasonTrolling and bottom fishing techniques for powerful catchesSmall group charter accommodating just two guests
When gag grouper season opens up in Bradenton's inshore waters, there's nothing quite like the rush of hooking into one of these bulldogs of the Gulf. Bear Hull Fishing Charters runs exclusive 2-person trips targeting these prized fish during their peak season, focusing on the sweet spot months of November and December when gags are feeding heavy and putting up the kind of fight that'll have your arms burning and your reel screaming. These aren't your typical inshore trips – we're talking serious bottom fishing and trolling action in some of Bradenton's most productive grouper holes.
You're looking at an intimate fishing experience built for serious anglers who want to get after Florida's most sought-after grouper species. With just 2 spots available, this isn't a cattle boat situation – it's you, your fishing partner, and our captain working prime structure where gag grouper stack up during season. We launch from Bradenton and hit the productive ledges, hard bottom, and artificial reefs where these fish hold. The vibe is all business when it comes to putting fish in the boat, but relaxed enough that you can actually enjoy the process. November through December is when everything clicks – water temps are dropping, baitfish are thick, and gags are actively feeding before winter really sets in.
We run a combination approach that's proven deadly on Bradenton gag grouper. Trolling lets us cover water and locate active schools, running deep-diving plugs and spoons over known structure until we mark fish or get bit. Once we find them, it's time to break out the bottom rigs – heavy conventional tackle with circle hooks, enough weight to get down and stay down in current, and fresh bait that gags can't resist. You'll be fishing 30 to 60 feet of water most of the time, working ledges and rocky bottom where these fish ambush prey. The key is being ready for that initial run – gags hit hard and immediately try to get back to their holes, so there's no messing around once you get bit. We provide all the tackle you need, from heavy spinning gear to conventional reels loaded with enough drag to turn these fish.
Gag grouper are the stars of this show, and for good reason. These fish average 5 to 15 pounds in our local waters, with bigger specimens pushing 20-plus pounds showing up regularly during peak season. What makes gags special isn't just their size – it's their attitude. They're aggressive predators that live around structure, ambushing anything that looks like an easy meal. When you hook one, they immediately dive for the rocks, using every ounce of their broad shoulders and powerful tail to try breaking you off. November and December are magic months because gags are fattening up, feeding heavily on the abundant baitfish that congregate around our local reefs and ledges. The cooler water temps get them more active during daylight hours, which means better bite windows throughout our trips. Beyond the fight, gags are considered some of the best eating fish in the Gulf – firm, white meat that's perfect for everything from grilling to fish sandwiches. Landing one of these fish during the limited season window is something every serious angler needs to experience at least once.
Gag grouper season is short, and the prime November-December window fills up fast with anglers who know when these fish are at their best. Bear Hull Fishing Charters has built a reputation around putting clients on quality grouper during this limited season, using years of local knowledge and proven techniques that produce results when other boats are struggling. With only 2 spots per trip, you're guaranteed personal attention and the flexibility to adjust tactics based on what the fish are doing that day. Don't wait until season is underway to book – the best dates disappear early, and you don't want to miss your shot at some of the most exciting inshore fishing Bradenton has to offer. These gag grouper trips represent the kind of focused, species-specific fishing that separates memorable days from ordinary ones.
Our 24-foot Carolina Skiff is built for serious gag grouper action in Bradenton's inshore waters. The 2013 vessel runs smooth with a reliable 140HP Suzuki that'll cruise at 30 knots to get you on the fish fast. When grouper season opens, this boat becomes your platform for targeting those hard-fighting bottom dwellers that love to hide in structure. The wireless trolling motor keeps things quiet when you need to sneak up on holding fish, while the GPS and fish finder combo helps locate those productive ledges and drop-offs where gag grouper hang out. An onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and your drinks cold during those prime November and December sessions. The skiff handles six anglers comfortably, giving everyone room to work when the grouper start biting. Built tough for Florida's inshore conditions, this Carolina Skiff puts you right where the action is without the rough ride of bigger waters.
Bradenton, FL, United States