New Years Day 2018 400lb Grouper

A good way to start off the new year with a pretty large Goliath Grouper. This picture does not do this fish justice. I was catching Red Snapper and Gag Grouper on a commercial spear fishing trip with Tommy Merril and Josh Reynolds. I was reeling in what felt like a snapper, and then if felt like I was fighting a winch. 20-25 minutes later I won the battle versus this guy. Estimated to weight 400lbs, +/- 50lbs. It is illegal to remove these endangered monsters from the water. They were nearly fished out a few decades ago. I landed this fish with a 100lb test main line, and a 80lb leader which is no small feat. Thank you Tommy, for letting me take the time needed to land it.