Blackbelly Grouper

When gag grouper get really big, their belly turns black and they earn the name "blackbelly". These large grouper are very difficult to catch because they run into the rocks. But this blackbelly met his match on this day. It rocked up right away and Michael kept the pressure on and finally busted him loose from the rocks. (Note the scrapes behind the gills in the picture.) The big fish then pulled like a freight train and Michael pulled back with incredible strength and technique, keeping this giant from getting in the rocks again. After a long battle, it showed itself on the surface and our eyes popped out of our heads as we scooped it in the boat. It was one of those moments that a fisherman will always remember. It was Michael's first grouper and he had been hoping for one for quite a while. Congratulations on a fish of a lifetime Michael!