They move offshore in late August or early September but often move back in after spawning. When I have small kids aboard, I usually rig up for Grunts, Sea Bass, and Lane Snapper because most little kids are not strong enough to handle the tackle I use for Grouper. I use a 2 or 3 hook rig on a light rod. I always use cut bait for these fish although small live baits are fine. My favorite cut bait is a small chunk of Remora.
Remoras are tough and oily and most bottom fish love em.
Most folks use Squid on this rig and it works just fine too. This rig catches an occasional nice Grouper and lots of species of small bottom fish. One of my favorite eating fish is the Triggerfish. The J hook catches Triggerfish better than the circle hook because Triggerfish are nippers and not easily caught on circle hooks. Almost any cut bait works but fresh is best with Remora again being my favorite.