Fish ID SE Florida

[Nick Steele]

Today I was snorkeling/freediving scouting lobster spots when this guy was spotted in about 22’ of water right ontop of the drop off in Fort Lauderdale beach. I know this isn’t a good picture but it’s all I have as I found him after looking at a lobster and when I went back down it was nowhere to be seen.

It reminded me of a panther grouper in shape with a high arched back but it was brownish/black and no dots. Hopefully someone can ID it.

Dive on,
Nick

 

[agilis]

Today I was snorkeling/freediving scouting lobster spots when this guy was spotted in about 22’ of water right ontop of the drop off in Fort Lauderdale beach. I know this isn’t a good picture but it’s all I have as I found him after looking at a lobster and when I went back down it was nowhere to be seen.

View attachment 468717

It reminded me of a panther grouper in shape with a high arched back but it was brownish/black and no dots. Hopefully someone can ID it.

Dive on,
Nick

Soapfish, Rypticus saponaceus

 

[Nick Steele]

People on here never cease to amaze me.

Thanks,
Nick

 

[T.C.]

Greater soapfish. Pretty common hiding during the day.