Creole Fish

Oceans & Range: Western Atlantic Ocean — from Florida south through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico to Brazil. Found around coral reefs and rocky areas in 60–400 feet — typically deeper than most grouper species. A beautiful orange-red grouper closely associated with deep coral reef environments throughout the Caribbean.

Preferred Water Temperature: 68°F–80°F. A tropical deep-water reef fish found below the thermocline in clear Caribbean and Gulf water. Often found at the deeper edges of coral reef drop-offs and rocky ledges.

Size & Weight: Typically 1–5 lbs. Maximum approximately 12 lbs. A bright orange-red grouper with yellow spots and fins. Outstanding table fish — sweet, white, firm meat. A common catch in Caribbean deep-reef fisheries.

Best Lures: Vertical jigs at depth produce strikes. Swimbaits near the base of deep reef structure work.

Best Baits: Fresh whole squid on deep-drop rigs are the top bait. Live small fish work well. Fresh cut bait of any kind produces at depth. Electric reels make fishing the 200–400 foot range practical for most anglers.

Western Atlantic Ocean — from Florida south through the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico to Brazil. Found around coral reefs and rocky areas in 60–400 feet — typically deeper than most grouper species. A beautiful orange-red grouper closely associated with deep coral reef environments throughout the Caribbean.

68°F–80°F. A tropical deep-water reef fish found below the thermocline in clear Caribbean and Gulf water. Often found at the deeper edges of coral reef drop-offs and rocky ledges.

Best Lures: Vertical jigs at depth produce strikes. Swimbaits near the base of deep reef structure work. Best Baits: Fresh whole squid on deep-drop rigs are the top bait. Live small fish work well. Fresh cut bait of any kind produces at depth. Electric reels make fishing the 200–400 foot range practical for most anglers.

Typically 1–5 lbs. Maximum approximately 12 lbs. A bright orange-red grouper with yellow spots and fins. Outstanding table fish — sweet, white, firm meat. A common catch in Caribbean deep-reef fisheries.