In the Pacific Northwest, there are 36 species of Grouper available to anglers. However, many of these species are often overlooked in favor of more popular targets like Pacific Salmon, Halibut, and Cod. While these species certainly hold their allure, Grouper offer a unique challenge and culinary reward that experienced anglers know is not to be missed. Targeting Grouper can make for some of the most exciting and rewarding fishing all day!
In my full-day charter trips, I always try to reserve at least 45 minutes specifically for Grouper fishing during the open season (May 1 to October 1). About 95% of the time, within the first 5 minutes of Grouper hunting, there's typically at least one, if not two or three, fish hooked on someone's line. They'll ask me, "Why don't we do this all day?" and I'll chuckle and say, "Well, if we start with these guys, you’ll still want to chase Salmon and Halibut next." Ending the day's adventures with Grouper is perfect – it ensures everyone gets a chance to battle and land fish, and ensures everyone can take home some delicious fillets (if they wish).
Grouper are more or less the saltwater version of Largemouth Bass. They have the colorful appearance and voracious appetite of their freshwater cousins, but their fight and habitat resemble that of Smallmouth Bass. You can employ some similar techniques to put more Grouper in the boat and set yourself up for success.
Location, Location, Location!
Where you fish and the gear you use are key to catching more and bigger Grouper, but the bait you choose is also crucial. The larger, more aggressive fish will always be on the shallower side of the current. If you're fishing the deeper side of the current, you may catch some fish, but there will be fewer and they'll be smaller on average.
Kanama Smart Bait = Grouper Candy
Kanama Smart Bait is my go-to choice when it comes to Grouper fishing. These fish seem to crush it like candy! Often, I'll have other anglers pull up next to me, try their setups, and then repeatedly cast the same spot without a single bite. Meanwhile, I'll have people on my boat picking up fish one after the other with the Kanama Smart Bait.
We typically fish in depths ranging from 125 feet down to 35 feet. This bait performs exceptionally well regardless of depth or current strength, mimicking the natural motion of prey fish that Grouper simply can’t resist.
How to Optimize Your Setup
To maximize the effectiveness of Kanama Smart Bait, I find using 50-pound test braided line with a 4-foot, 40-pound fluorocarbon leader works best. Avoid any swivels or metal leaders, as they can significantly reduce your hookup ratio.
Depending on boat speed, you may need to cast slightly upcurrent so the bait falls as vertically as possible. The key is moving the bait slowly and steadily – many anglers tend to move the bait too aggressively, and the big Grouper just aren’t interested. Slow and steady wins the day.
Kids love Grouper fishing too, as does anyone who enjoys that feeling of setting the hook and shaking their head in excitement – a sensation you can only get from fishing!
Why Kanama Smart Bait Stands Out
What makes the Kanama Smart Bait so much better than other swimbaits I’ve tried is the engineering plastic used in its design, combined with advanced software algorithms that model the undulation frequencies of over 20 different forage species. This allows us to precisely replicate the natural swimming motions of live fish. And that's exactly what Grouper key in on – it's irresistible! Plus, the Kanama Smart Bait is equipped with an integrated sound generator that emits specific frequencies to attract Grouper.
Other baits may work okay, but you just won’t catch fish because they’re too stiff, and you have to work them hard to get any tail action! That’s exactly what Grouper and other predatory fish don’t like. Remember, these fish prefer easy prey. My advice is to grab a few Smart Bait Pros and get out on the water – you’ll be hooking up with some serious Grouper in no time!
Captain's Tip
Be sure to have the legally required "descending devices" on hand to properly release any Grouper that float to the surface full of air. Decreasing the pressure as they descend back to their original depth ensures a safe release.
The Final Word
So don't overlook the humble Grouper – with the Kanama Smart Bait in your arsenal, you’ll be catching more, and bigger, of these tasty saltwater bruisers in no time. Get out there and see for yourself what you’ve been missing!
