Greasy grouper Fishing

The classic inshore grouper of Red Sea reefs, known in Egypt as 'hamour'. Along the Hurghada-Safaga band it ambushes from under coral heads, wrecks and jetty legs in 10-40 m. Fish a live small scad or fresh cuttlefish on a big single hook and short leader. On the take the fish bolts for its hole, so keep the rod high and win the first two metres without giving line. Do not confuse it with the Mediterranean dusky grouper; this species belongs strictly to the Red Sea and Indo-Pacific fauna.

Epinephelus tauvina

Greasy grouper (Epinephelus tauvina)
Photo: Diego Delso · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Season calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Active periodSpawning period — release what you catch

Season
January–December
Water temperature
22–31 °C
Spawning
April–June
Behaviour
Ambushes from structure

Techniques

  • Heavy bottom fishing
  • slow jigging
  • live bait

Frequently asked

When is the best time to catch greasy grouper?
The productive window for greasy grouper runs January–December. April–June is the spawning period; releasing your catch during these months is strongly advised.
What water temperature does greasy grouper feed in?
Greasy grouper is most active between 22 and 31 °C. Outside that band its feeding rate drops off.
How do you fish for greasy grouper?
Common methods: Heavy bottom fishing, slow jigging, live bait.

Species that fish under similar conditions

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