This fish occurs in the western Atlantic from North Carolina to southern Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean and Bermuda with strays occurring as far north as Massachusetts. Juveniles may be found in shallow water, but adults are mainly found resting in potholes on, or edges close to rocky, flat bottoms in depths up to 1000 ft (305 m). Red grouper rarely occur around coral reefs. Like other grouper, the red is usually caught while bottom fishing with cut or live bait. Unlike other grouper that are associated with reefs, reds can be taken on relatively light tackle. Red grouper is one of the most important species of fish caught off the coast of Florida, the Campeche Bank and Yucatan Peninsula.
| DISTRIBUTION: | Western Atlantic Ocean |
| MAX SIZE: | 55 lb / 25 kg |
| MAX LENGHT: | 50 inch / 125 cm |
| MAX AGE: | Unknown |
| ENVIRONMENT: | Saltwater |