The Allure of the Jigging Spoon.

Jigging for Grouper and Snapper in Puerto Rico: A Deep and Shallow Water Adventure

Puerto Rico is a tropical angler’s paradise, surrounded by Caribbean waters teeming with game fish species. Among the most sought-after are grouper and snapper—two powerful bottom dwellers known for their strong fights and excellent table fare. One of the most effective and exciting methods to target these species is jigging, which has gained popularity in both shallow and deep waters around the island.

The Basics of Jigging

Jigging is a vertical fishing technique that uses a metal lure—known as a jig—to mimic wounded baitfish. Anglers drop the jig to the bottom and retrieve it with sharp upward jerks or rhythmic lifts, triggering aggressive strikes from predatory species like grouper and snapper.

There are two main jigging styles:

  • Slow Pitch Jigging – deliberate, flutter-style presentation, ideal for deep waters.

  • Speed Jigging – fast, erratic motion that works well for active feeders and covering water quickly.

Shallow Water Jigging (30–120 Feet)

Puerto Rico's inshore reefs and rocky ledges offer excellent shallow-water jigging, especially for:

  • Mutton Snapper

  • Mangrove Snapper

  • Yellowtail Snapper

  • Red Grouper

  • Gag Grouper

Hotspots Include:

  • La Parguera’s reef systems (southwest coast)

  • The southern shelf near Guánica

  • Fajardo’s nearshore ledges

  • Reefs around Vieques and Culebra

Recommended Tackle:

  • 6’–7’ medium-heavy rod

  • 30–50 lb braid + 40–60 lb fluorocarbon leader

  • Jigs from 40g–120g, depending on current and depth

Tips:

  • Lighter jigs for calmer conditions; heavier for drift or tidal movement.

  • Focus on tide changes and structure with sudden depth drops.

Deep Water Jigging (150–600+ Feet)

For seasoned anglers, the offshore waters of Puerto Rico open the door to hard-fighting deepwater species like:

  • Black Grouper

  • Scamp Grouper

  • Snowy Grouper

  • Queen Snapper

  • Silk Snapper

  • Vermilion Snapper

Top Deep-Water Zones:

  • Puerto Rico Trench drop-offs

  • Deep ledges off Rincón and Cabo Rojo

  • Offshore humps south of Vieques

  • Seamounts east of Fajardo

Recommended Tackle:

  • Heavy-duty jigging rods and high-speed conventional reels

  • 50–80 lb braid + 60–100 lb fluorocarbon leader

  • Jigs from 150g–400g (glow and UV-enhanced styles for depth)

Pro Tip: Slow pitch jigging shines in deeper waters. Let your jig flutter and hang in the strike zone longer for better results.

Booking Options: Fish with Simply Caught Charters

If you’re looking for a professional, fully-equipped charter to experience jigging in Puerto Rico, Simply Caught Charters offers some of the island’s best guided fishing trips.

Why Choose Simply Caught Charters:

  • Experienced local captains who specialize in vertical jigging

  • Trips available in both shallow reef and deepwater offshore areas

  • Top-tier tackle and gear included (including jigging setups)

  • English-speaking crew, family-friendly environment, and customizable outings

Trip Options Include:

  • 4–6 hour inshore reef jigging trips (great for beginners)

  • Full-day offshore deep drop jigging adventures

  • Multi-species trips targeting snapper, grouper, amberjack, and more

📍 Departure Ports: Aguidilla, Rincon, Mayaguez,, and Combate
🌐 Website: SimplyCaughtCharters.com
📞 Phone: +1 (828)273-0286
📧 Email: info@simplycaughtcharters.com

Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak fishing season (November–May).

Final Thoughts

Whether you're exploring the vibrant shallows or dropping deep into the blue, jigging for grouper and snapper in Puerto Rico is a memorable experience for any angler. With the help of a seasoned crew like Simply Caught Charters, you can maximize your chances for success—and come home with a cooler full of fresh Caribbean fish.

Ready to fish? Book a trip, grab your jig, and get hooked in paradise.

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The History of Puerto Rico Marlin Fishing and Charters