Grouper are one of the most popular kinds of fish when it comes to fishing. They are usually found in the shallow waters of the ocean, and there is a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. This makes it easy for anyone to catch a grouper, whether you are a professional fisherman or a beginner in the sport. What’s more is that the smaller ones are extremely easy to catch and can be easily stocked in the average person’s freezer. There are even freshwater varieties that can be found practically anywhere in the country, as long as there’s plenty of water. This article is going to tell you about the weight of different kinds of grouper so that you can have a better idea of what they are like and how much you may or may not want to take home depending on your situation.
Table of Contents
Pair, Tweener, And Spinner Grouper
The three basic varieties of grouper are the pair, tweener, and spinner. The two former varieties are usually seen in the same sort of environment, while the latter two can be found in a wider variety of locations. Most people are familiar with the first two varieties, as they are the most common ones, but the latter two are not often seen in markets and restaurants across the country. However, this is beginning to change as more people are finding out about them and how delicious they can be when cooked properly. Let’s take a look at the weight of these three varieties so that you can have an idea of what to expect when you go fishing for them.
Pair Grouper
This variety of grouper has two dark bands running across its nose and mouth that give it a distinct look. The two bands are there to help identify the species of this fish, as it shares the same genus as the tarpon. Like the other varieties of the grouper family, pair grouper can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, but they are mostly associated with the latter. Due to their small size and ease of catching, pair grouper are extremely popular among children and first-time anglers. For best results, always use fishing rods and lures that are specifically designed for the size and species of fish you are targeting. If you are unable to catch fish using these methods, then it may be time to switch gears and use a different type of fishing strategy.
Tweener Grouper
As the name would suggest, this variety of grouper has two bands on its face, but these are thinner than those found on a pair of grouper. They are also slightly paler, which gives the appearance of two parallel lighter bands on the face of the fish. Tweeners can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, but they are usually associated with the latter. Due to their smaller size and greater maneuverability, tweeners are great for anglers who are just getting started in the sport or for children who want to put in some practice before they are allowed to go fishing with their parents. Make sure to always have plenty of life vests and emergency equipment on hand when fishing offshore waters, as things can go wrong very quickly and without warning. It is also essential that children are taught how to swim before they start fishing, as this will greatly reduce their chances of drowning should they fall into the water.
Spinner Grouper
This variety of grouper has a very slender body and a long, whip-like tail that they use to navigate through the water. Like the other two varieties of the family, it can be found in both saltwater and freshwater environments, but they are usually associated with the latter. Due to their long, slender bodies and unique tail movements, spinners are also known as the snake-headed fish or the slithery snakes. Just like with the other varieties of the family, spinners are usually much smaller than their pair and tweener counterparts and also have a distinctively different appearance as a result of their odd shape and unique tail. They are extremely fast swimmers and are able to reach speeds of nearly 40 mph. Some anglers have had success using live bait such as minnows and lures with some of the more potent fishing lures available. Just make sure to always have plenty of life vests and safety equipment on hand when fishing offshore waters, especially if you are trolling for them. There is also the danger of being hit by a boat while fishing, so always wear a life jacket.
King George Island Grouper
You won’t find this variety of grouper marketed very often, as they are usually associated with large fish markets and restaurants across the country. However, if you are ever in South Carolina, then you should definitely try to get your hands on a king george island grouper. These are actually a hybrid of the other three varieties of grouper, so they have the characteristics of all three. The size and shape of the king george island are akin to those of a pair or pair-like variety, but it has a longer, narrower snout than a tweener. It is one of the most popular varieties of the fish, especially with seafood lovers, as it has a rich, buttery flavor that is almost impossible to put into words. The best way to prepare one of these fish is simply by baking it with some seasoning, either butterflied or grilled. Make sure to always have plenty of life vests and safety equipment on hand when fishing in open waters, as there is always the danger of drowning should you fall into the water. And remember, children should always be accompanied by an adult when fishing, as they may become disorientated in the company of the water and lose their way home.
These were just some of the varieties of grouper that you may come across while fishing. Depending on your personal preferences, you may want to go for one that is a little less intimidating in terms of appearance or one that is more common in your area. As for the amount of food that you may need to bring home, this will depend on how big the fish you are targeting are. For a better idea of what to expect, check out the weight charts for different varieties of fish at FreshPlate.com