Goliath Grouper Fishing Charter FAQ | Sanibel & Captiva

How much does a Goliath grouper fishing charter on Sanibel and Captiva cost?

A private Goliath grouper charter is $750 for 4 hours or $1,000 for 6 hours for up to 3 people. Each additional person is $75, up to 6 people total, though it's best not to crowd the boat for this trip. Bait, tackle and licenses are included. Call (239) 349-2158 to book.

What is included on a Goliath grouper charter?

Every Goliath grouper charter includes bait, heavy tackle and fishing licenses, aboard a fully equipped 22' Pathfinder Tournament Edition bay boat with native guide Capt. Cliff and first mate Lucy. The trip is private, so it's just your group on the boat. Book at captivafishingcharters.com/contact.

How big do Goliath grouper get near Sanibel and Captiva?

Goliath grouper are among Southwest Florida's largest fish. They can grow well over 7 feet long and weigh more than 350 pounds. The fish we hook can be in excess of 350 pounds at times, and many anglers think they've snagged the bottom until the fight begins. Call (239) 349-2158 to take your shot.

Can you keep a Goliath grouper in Florida?

Generally, no. Under FWC rules, any Goliath grouper caught must be released immediately, alive and unharmed. The only exception is a limited lottery harvest permit and tag: one fish of 24 to 36 inches per permit, March 1 to May 31, in open state waters only. Our charters are catch-and-release, and every fish is released boatside.

How are Goliath grouper handled and released on your charters?

Goliath grouper are protected, so each fish is handled carefully, photographed in the water and released to fight another day. FWC recommends keeping large goliaths in the water and using a dehooking tool. Capt. Cliff follows those practices on every Sanibel and Captiva Goliath charter. Book at captivafishingcharters.com/contact.

Can I get in the water with my Goliath grouper for photos?

Yes. You can swim alongside your Goliath for an in-water photo before it's released, which keeps the fish in the water as FWC recommends. It's one of the best parts of a Sanibel and Captiva Goliath grouper charter. Call (239) 349-2158.

Is Goliath grouper fishing hard? Do I need experience?

It's a real battle, and it usually takes help from another angler or the captain to land one. You don't need to be an expert: Capt. Cliff provides heavy tackle and coaching on how to fight and land a goliath. It's a bucket-list trip for anglers who want a true test. Book at captivafishingcharters.com/contact.

Can kids come on a Goliath grouper fishing trip?

Goliath grouper trips aren't recommended for young children because these fish can top 350 pounds, but kids are welcome to come along and watch. For families with younger anglers, a half-day inshore trip with Captiva Fishing Charters may be a better fit. Call (239) 349-2158 to choose the right trip.

How long is a Goliath grouper charter, half day or full day?

Choose a 4-hour half-day trip ($750) or a 6-hour full-day trip ($1,000). The full day leaves time to fish and then visit an island spot like Cabbage Key for a cheeseburger, often with dolphins playing in the boat wake. Call (239) 349-2158 to pick your trip length.

Who is the captain on Goliath grouper charters?

Capt. Cliff Gilchrist is a native Southwest Florida guide who has fished these waters since childhood for snook, redfish, tarpon, sharks and Goliath grouper. He and first mate Lucy run every trip. Book at captivafishingcharters.com/contact.

Where do Goliath grouper charters meet?

Goliath grouper trips mainly pick up at Jensen's Marina, 15107 Captiva Dr, Captiva, FL 33924, on Captiva Island and close to the Sanibel and Captiva fishing grounds. Call (239) 349-2158 with any questions before your trip.

Can I book a Goliath grouper charter while staying at South Seas Island Resort?

Yes. Goliath grouper trips pick up at Jensen's Marina on Captiva, a short drive from South Seas Island Resort, so guests on the north end of the island can be on the water fast. Bait, heavy tackle and licenses are included on every private trip. Call (239) 349-2158 to reserve your date.

Where do you fish for Goliath grouper around Sanibel and Captiva?

Goliath grouper live around structure, so we fish bridges, passes, wrecks and reefs. When the weather permits, we head out into the Gulf. When conditions aren't ideal, goliaths can still be caught near the passes and bridges, so a breezy day doesn't have to end your trip. Book at captivafishingcharters.com/contact.

What happens if weather affects my Goliath charter?

Your date is held with a deposit, and Capt. Cliff makes the weather call. If he cancels for weather, your deposit is refunded. You can also cancel with 72 hours' notice for a refund. No-call/no-shows are billed. Call or text (239) 349-2158 to check on your date.

Do you offer other fishing trips besides Goliath grouper?

Yes. Captiva Fishing Charters also offers inshore half-day and full-day trips for snook, redfish and trout, along with shark charters and a shelling/dolphin cruise around Sanibel and Captiva. See captivafishingcharters.com for trips and rates.

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