Triggers live tight to offshore artificial reefs and hard bottom in 60-150 feet of water. They're vertical-structure fish, hovering just above the reef picking at bait. The 904 reef line and any deeper artificial structure offshore holds them in numbers.
Distinctive flat compressed body, diamond shape with the dorsal 'trigger' spike at the front, small mouth with sharp teeth. Florida Atlantic minimum 12 inches fork length, daily bag of 1, federal closed seasons sometimes apply. Average 1-3 lb; 5+ lb is trophy.
Year-round on offshore structure but easier in calmer summer months when you can fish smaller hooks and lighter line. Closed seasons in Atlantic federal water shift — always check FWC before targeting to keep.
They're notorious bait stealers with small tough mouths. Use the smallest sharp hook you can get away with (#1 or 1/0), small tough baits like squid strips or crab pieces, and set fast on the lightest tap. If you wait to feel a real hit, the bait is already gone. Excellent table fish — worth the effort to land a limit when they're in season.
Florida fishing regulations change. Always confirm slot, bag limits, and seasons on the official source before you keep anything. See our Licenses & Regulations page or go straight to MyFWC.com.