A fisherman off the coast of southwest Florida caught a 3-foot shark — only to have his catch eaten by a goliath grouper.
Surprise Catch
Captain Jimmy Wheeler from Everglades Fishing Company shared an unexpected tale from a fishing trip about 20 miles off Everglades City in the Gulf of Mexico.
Big Shadow Looms
A member of his group caught a small shark, planning to catch and release. However, a large shadow appeared, signaling an unexpected turn.
Grouper’s Feast
The 500-pound grouper swam up and gulped down the small shark, still hooked on the fishing line, shocking the group.
Intense Struggle
The fishermen struggled with the giant grouper for several minutes. Finally, the line loosened as the fish got away with the shark.
Sea’s Garbage Disposal
Goliath groupers, often called the “garbage disposals of the sea,” are notorious for eating anything in sight, frustrating many fishermen.
Impressive Size
These fish can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh around 800 pounds, making them one of the largest fish in the ocean.
The Video
Protected Species
Due to their declining populations, goliath groupers are protected in Florida. Fishing and possessing them has been banned since 1990.
Handling with Care
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission advises keeping large goliath groupers in the water during release to prevent damage to their skeletal structure.
Risk of Injury
Removing a goliath grouper from the water can cause internal injuries, leading to its classification as harvested, which is against the law.
What is a goliath grouper?
A goliath grouper is a large fish known for its massive size and appetite, often referred to as the “garbage disposal of the sea.”
How big can they get?
Goliath groupers can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh around 800 pounds.
Why are they protected?
They are protected due to their declining populations, ensuring their numbers can recover.
When were they protected?
The protection law came into effect in 1990 in both state and federal waters off Florida’s coast.
Conclusion
The unexpected encounter with a goliath grouper off the coast of Florida highlights the challenges and surprises that come with fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Despite their frustrating habits, these massive fish are a vital part of the marine ecosystem and remain protected to ensure their survival.
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