Everglades Grouper Fishing Charters
Grouper Fishing Out Of Naples, Marco Island, And Everglades City.
Grouper fishing in the offshore waters of Southwest Florida, is a test of both strength and strategy, drawing anglers from all over who seek the thrill of battling one of the Gulf's hardest fighting fish. These bottom-dwelling predators are known for their brute power and cunning ability to retreat into structure the moment they feel a hook. That first crushing strike is unmistakable—there’s no nibbling, no hesitation, just a full-on assault as a grouper inhales the bait and dives for cover.
The waters off Naples are home to several species of grouper, with red and gag grouper being the most commonly targeted. Red grouper, a year-round resident, prefers hard-bottom areas and is often caught in waters from 60 to 120 feet deep. They are aggressive feeders, willing to strike live pinfish, threadfin herring, or fresh-cut bait. Gag grouper, on the other hand, are more structure-oriented, lurking around ledges, wrecks, and rocky formations, often in depths shallower than their cousins the red grouper. Grouper require heavy tackle and quick reflexes to prevent them from breaking off in their lairs.
Winter and spring mark prime grouper fishing months, particularly for gag grouper, as cooling water temperatures push them closer to shore. However, red grouper remain a consistent target throughout the year, making them a reliable species for offshore anglers. Summer months see deeper drops becoming more productive, while fall often brings strong action as fish move between seasonal habitats.
A day spent chasing grouper off Naples, Marco Island, or the Everglades isn’t just about the fish—it’s an experience steeped in adventure. The ride out to the fishing grounds is its own kind of therapy, with the boat cutting through calm morning waters, dolphins riding the wake, and the horizon painted in hues of pink and orange. Once anchored or drifting over promising bottom, anticipation builds with every drop of the bait. The sun climbs, the salt air thickens, and then the rod doubles over. Every grouper fight is a game of inches, a tug-of-war between angler and fish. The reward is both the satisfaction of the battle and the promise of some of the best table fare the Gulf has to offer.
EVERGLADES Grouper Fishing CHARTER Details
Capt. Evan Noponen offers full day and half day offshore grouper fishing trips out of Naples, Marco Island, and Everglades City. Multiple boats are available for groups of more than 4 people. Contact Us for current rates and availability. All trips include tackle, bait, fuel costs, launch fees, and a cooler with water and ice.
Payments And Deposits
Cash, Check or Venmo.
Credit cards through Venmo (additional service charges may apply)
$200 per day per guide deposit for all trips
Please Contact Us to make payment arrangements
What To Bring
Any food/drinks needed for a long hot day on the water
Polarized sunglasses (copper, amber, and green lenses preferred)
Hat and sun protection
Quick drying clothing
Rain gear, jackets and pants
Shoes with non-marking soles