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Longfin grouper

Epinephelus quoyanus

Longfin grouper© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Longfin grouper (Epinephelus quoyanus) is a medium‑sized reef predator prized for its firm white flesh. It frequents coral and rocky structures where anglers can target it using bottom‑fishing techniques. Its moderate size and tasty meat make it a popular target in tropical coastal waters.

Fight
Taste
Reports of ciguatera

Basic Information

Family

Epinephelidae

Max Size

40 cm

Habitat

marine

Climate

tropical

Best Season

May to September (warm months)

Best Time

Early morning and late evening

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Longfin grouper

  • Fish near ledges, drop‑offs, or wrecks where grouper hide
  • Use a slow, steady retrieve or let the lure sit on the bottom
  • Brightly colored soft plastics work well in clear water
  • Check local regulations for size and bag limits

Top Fishing Locations for Longfin grouper

Christmas Island Groupers

Australia
intermediate75% Very Common

World‑renowned for abundant large Longfin grouper on deep reef ledges and volcanic pinnacles.

Best: March–September

Ari Atoll, Maldives

Maldives
intermediate60% Common

Clear waters over steep drop‑offs host plentiful Longfin grouper, especially around Lionfish Point.

Best: January–April

El Nido, Palawan

Philippines
intermediate55% Common

Rocky limestone cliffs and inner lagoons provide excellent ambush sites for Longfin grouper.

Best: February–May

Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef

Australia
beginner70% Very Common

Remote reef with deep channels where Longfin grouper congregate on reef tops and drop‑offs.

Best: June–November

Sharm El Sheikh, Red Sea

Egypt
intermediate45% Occasional

Warm Red Sea currents bring Longfin grouper to reef crests and wreck sites near the Sinai coast.

Best: October–March

Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles

Seychelles
intermediate30% Occasional

Isolated atoll with pristine coral slopes where large Longfin grouper are seasonal visitors.

Best: April–July

Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Fiji
intermediate50% Common

Turquoise lagoons and outer reef walls host healthy populations of Longfin grouper, often caught on live bait.

Best: May–October

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Longfin grouper

Recommended Equipment

Rod6‑7 ft medium‑heavy spinning or conventional rod, fast action
Line20‑30 lb test monofilament or braided line
Lure TypeSoft‑plastic swimbaits, jig heads, or bucktail jigs
TechniqueBottom fishing with a slow drop‑shot or jigging near structure

Best bait: Live shrimp, small crabs, or baitfish strips