Bottom fishing is simple, social and surprisingly exciting. A gray triggerfish pulling against you on a deep reef is a real fight, and the fish fry beautifully.
- Season Year-round, rules vary by species
- Where Reefs, wrecks and hard bottom from nearshore to deep water
- How Weighted rigs with cut or live bait, fished on the bottom
- Good eating Yes: firm, white, sweet meat
- Good for Groups, beginners and kids
What is bottom fishing?
Bottom fishing means dropping bait down to the structure where fish live: reefs, ledges, wrecks and rocky bottom. You hold the rod, feel for a bite and reel up the fish. Because everyone fishes at once, it is great for groups.
Triggerfish
The gray triggerfish gets its name from a locking spine on its back, which it can raise and lock in place. They have tough, leathery skin and strong little teeth that can strip a hook of bait before you know it. They fight hard and they are excellent to eat. You will not forget your first one.
Grouper and other bottom fish
Other fish you may find on the bottom include grouper, porgies, grunts, hogfish and snappers (see our snapper guide). Be aware that some of these have special rules:
- Goliath grouper cannot be kept at all, and must be released with care.
- Other grouper have size limits, bag limits and seasonal closures that apply to Atlantic waters.
- Rules change, so we go by what is current. See fishing rules basics.
How a bottom stop works
- The captain finds structure on the electronics and positions the boat.
- The crew baits your hook and shows you how to lower it to the bottom.
- When you feel a bite, lift the rod and reel steadily.
- Fish that are legal to keep go in the box. Others are released quickly.
Why it makes a good trip
Bottom fishing is dependable even when seas are bumpy offshore or the pelagic fish are quiet. It is a good mix with trolling on a longer trip. See offshore, nearshore and inshore fishing.
Handle triggerfish carefully. Their spines and teeth can cut. Let the crew unhook the fish.
Ready to put this to work? Request a trip with Good Mojo and tell us what you want to catch, or send us a question first.
Frequently asked questions
Is triggerfish good to eat?
Yes. Triggerfish have firm, white, slightly sweet meat. The skin is tough, so the fish is skinned before cooking.
Can I keep goliath grouper?
No. Goliath grouper must be released. Other groupers have their own size limits, bag limits and closed seasons.
Is bottom fishing good for kids?
Yes. It is simple, there is plenty of action, and everyone can fish at once.
Do I need experience?
No. The crew baits the hooks and coaches you through each bite.