Gray Triggerfish

Season in Delmarva

DNREC: common, 1 to 3 lb, around reefs and floating debris; mid-October 2026 triggers at Indian River Inlet on sand fleas and crab. (Our inference)

Season by region

Where to find them

Indian River Inlet rocks, artificial reefs and floating debris; small hook on a dropper loop.

On reefs and hard bottom; nibbles baits.

What to look for

Bait stripped from hooks without a bite felt: triggers are nibbling.

Bait

Cut squid, Cut fish. Two-hook bottom (chicken) rig, weight on the bottom, lower hook about 12 in above it; touch bottom then reel up a couple of turns.

Leader

Two-hook chicken rig with the weight on the bottom.

Common mistakes

• Big hooks; they pick baits off
• Fingers near the mouth

Landing

Swing or net; keep hands away from the teeth.

Handling

• Strong incisor-like teeth that bite
• Locking first dorsal spine

Hold away from the mouth; the dorsal spine unlocks when the second spine is pushed down.

Keep or release

Good eating. Check state rules.

Recipes for gray triggerfish

Typical: 1 to 3 lb. Large: unknown. Delaware record 6 lb 5 oz (2012).

Limits

FishOS has not checked the DE and MD and VA limits yet. Check the size, bag and season rules with the Delaware DNREC Fish and Wildlife before you keep a fish.

Sources

• DNREC Delaware Fish and Shellfish Facts: Gray Triggerfish (Official source)
• DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife weekly fishing report (Oct 15 2026) (Official source)
• Florida Museum, Discover Fishes: gray triggerfish (Official source)
• NOAA Fisheries: gray triggerfish (Official source)
• Carolina Sportsman: triggerfish on SC nearshore reefs (Angler knowledge)

All the fish of Delmarva