Triggerfish Fishing North of Tampa Bay Coastal
Triggerfish are tasty reef dwellers found offshore of the Dunedin, Palm Harbor, and Tarpon Springs area. Though not always targeted, they are often caught while fishing for snapper or grouper on deep reefs. Their powerful jaws and sharp teeth make them challenging and fun to catch.
Where to Catch Triggerfish
Triggerfish are usually caught on:
Offshore reefs and natural ledges
Deep wrecks in 80–200 feet of water
While bottom fishing with small hooks and bait
Often mixed in with snapper and grunts
Best Time to Fish for Triggerfish
| Season | Triggerfish Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Good catches on reefs and wrecks |
| Summer | Most productive months offshore |
| Fall | Still available but may require deeper drops |
Peak Season: April through August
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Rarely used; small baited rigs are best
Bait: Squid, shrimp, or cut bait on small hooks
Leaders: 20–30 lb mono or fluorocarbon
Technique: Drop bait directly to the reef; use sensitive rods to detect subtle bites
