Grouper, Scamp
Food Quality:
Avg. Length
12-24in
Avg. Weight
1-8lbs
World Record
29lbs 10oz
FL Record
28lbs 6oz
View Regulations
Scientific Name
Mycteroperca phenax
Common Names
Brown grouper, Broomtail grouper, Abadejo
Description
The Scamp Grouper is characterized by its brown to dark brown appearance fading to a white underside. They are covered with leopard like darker spots that can occasionally form lines or spots. They have a different looking tail which can be described as a slanted broom like appearance. The tail usually has a few extended spines protruding from it.
Habitat & Behaviour
Scamp Grouper can be found near underwater structures such as ledges, rocks, wrecks and reefs. They are partial to warm water temperatures and will move further inshore during a drop in water temperature.
Natural Prey
Scamp Grouper have a diet consisting of octopus, crabs, shrimp, other cephalopods, invertebrates and small fish.
Handling Tips
Reef fish like the Grouper require anglers to use dehooking tools and venting tools to safely release the fish. When releasing keep in water, remove hook with pliers or dehooker and vent accordingly if you brought it up from a deep depth. Grouper all share a set of very sharp teeth and very sharp gill plates. Put fingers gently inside gill plate (just in corner , not too far inside), pinch outside of lip with thumb – easiest way to hang onto them. Spines not known to injure.
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