2020 Triggerfish Season is Right Around the Corner

Gulf of Mexico Federal Fishing Season for Gray Triggerfish is set to open on March 1, 2020.  The minimum size limit is 15”.  The bag limit will be one fish per person.  As we are a Federal fishing charter boat, you can expect to land large Triggerfish when out on charter with us.  There is less fishing pressure where we fish in federal waters.  Triggerfish are tasty fish with sweet white meat comparable to crab meat and grouper.  However, the Triggerfish fillet is perfect for the grill after your fishing charter as the meat has a firm texture. Triggerfish have a distinctive shape.  Their bodies are oval and fairly flat.  When fighting them to the surface, you can feel a distinctive drag as they spin around and around.  With their heavy, armor plated bodies it can seem as if you have a record breaking one on the line.  In Fort Walton Beach, we have found that they grow as large as 22 inches long and weigh up to 12 pounds.  Triggerfish have two spines on the dorsal fins that are used for defensive measures.    Triggerfish can flex these spines to anchor themselves in tight crevices.  When one is flexed, it triggers the other to release.  This is an impressive feature from which they get their name.  When you catch your Triggerfish, ask the Captain to show you all about it.  In addition to their “triggers”, these fish are also known for their small mouths full of sharp chisel-edged teeth.  Always take care when handling a Triggerfish; there are no shortage of bite stories regarding this species.  They do not distinguish between human and animal targets.  A friend who frequently fishes with his dog tells a story of how a Triggerfish grabbed his dog by the neck.  Luckily the pup was uninjured and was later able to enjoy a taste of his adversary.  Call us today to get in on the action of tangling with some Triggerfish!  When your team has wrapped up a day of fishing excitement on the Gulf of Mexico, it’s enjoyable to have a fresh fish dinner and relax.  We recommend checking out some local restaurants that will cook your catch.  Check out our “Hook and Cook” blog page for more information.  Call us today to book your Triggerfish trip!