Rock Hind Grouper

Oceans & Range: Western Atlantic Ocean — from Massachusetts south through Florida, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean to Brazil. Found around rocky and coral reefs in 10–80 feet. Similar range to Red Hind but often found in slightly different habitat — rocky and rubble bottom rather than pure coral.

Preferred Water Temperature: 68°F–80°F. Found around rocky and coral reef structure in warm tropical and subtropical water. Somewhat more tolerant of rocky, non-coral habitat than Red Hind Grouper.

Size & Weight: Typically 1–4 lbs. Maximum approximately 10 lbs. World record: 9 lbs 8 oz. Brownish with orange-red spots and distinctive darker saddles across the back. Good eating fish with the firm white flesh typical of the grouper family.

Best Lures: Small jigs near rocky bottom produce strikes. Swimbaits work around structure.

Best Baits: Fresh shrimp are effective. Cut squid works consistently. Small live fish produce strikes. Bottom rigs with fresh bait near rocky structure are standard.

Western Atlantic Ocean — from Massachusetts south through Florida, Gulf of Mexico, and Caribbean to Brazil. Found around rocky and coral reefs in 10–80 feet. Similar range to Red Hind but often found in slightly different habitat — rocky and rubble bottom rather than pure coral.

68°F–80°F. Found around rocky and coral reef structure in warm tropical and subtropical water. Somewhat more tolerant of rocky, non-coral habitat than Red Hind Grouper.

Best Lures: Small jigs near rocky bottom produce strikes. Swimbaits work around structure. Best Baits: Fresh shrimp are effective. Cut squid works consistently. Small live fish produce strikes. Bottom rigs with fresh bait near rocky structure are standard.

Typically 1–4 lbs. Maximum approximately 10 lbs. World record: 9 lbs 8 oz. Brownish with orange-red spots and distinctive darker saddles across the back. Good eating fish with the firm white flesh typical of the grouper family.