May 1st is the first day of grouper season. You can once again harvest grouper in the Atlantic. Please go to http://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/groupers/atlantic-grouper/ to check the latest size limits and catch limits.
Grouper can be caught using several different methods. The most common is by using live pinfish, grunts, blue runners or any other type of live bait using a standard bottom rig. Make sure you use stout tackle to bring the grouper off the bottom. You will also catch amberjacks while fishing for grouper.
Another method for catching grouper is by jigging with a butterfly jig. My favorite method is by trolling deep diving plugs along the shallow patch reefs or even inshore along the channel edges. If using these methods, try fishing on the weekdays when there is less boat traffic and watch out for scuba divers and snorkelers on the shallow patch reefs.
The big dolphin (mahi mahi), are still migrating north. There are several popular dolphin tournaments in May along the Treasure Coast too. Troll ballyhoo with pink and white or blue and white skirts. If you have the means to troll a dredge, I highly recommend it for bringing dolphin right up to the back of your boat.
Also, the no wake zone opens back up to 30 miles an hour between the bridges. But please be mindful of your speed around the smaller boats and be safe out there.