Another Gulf Coast offshore structure inhabitant. Commonly known to snapper anglers and
Scuba divers alike. Awkward in appearance with a parrot-like beak, which is used for
grinding up bits of barnacles and reef structure and extracting substance for food. A
favorite of scuba divers because of its odd way of swimming underwater. Snapper fishermen
could do without them though since they have such small mouths making them great bait
stealer as well. Found in many of the places most offshore anglers frequent such as oil
rig platforms, snapper reefs, shipwrecks and the like. If there is a barnacles within ten
miles you can bet the triggerfish won't be far behind. Although edible, but bony they are
not particularly sought after as game fish. But can break the tension on an otherwise
boring day of not catching fish, since their wide bodies do cause some resistance when
hooked. And on light tackle can be quite challenging for younger anglers. Daytime feeders
during the warmer months. Best baits are pieces of squid on a small, but sharpened hook...
State Records: 11.12 Pounds
Gulf of Mexico, April 25, 1982
Steven Griffith
World Record: 13 pounds and 9 ounces
Murrels Inlet, South Carolina, May 3, 1989
Jim Hilton