As Ryan mentioned, Goliath Grouper, formerly known as Jewfish, are protected and closed to harvest year round. It's strictly a catch and release fishery. That could change in the next few years, the damned things are everywhere. That being said, your buddy may be able to find a guide that will target them. Fighting one is either like hooking the bottom or hooking a submarine depending on whether he hunkers down or goes for a swim after you hook him. All other grouper are closed to harvest on the gulf coast of Florida through March 31.
If your buddy wants food fish, it should be easy to find a guide for Redfish and Seatrout. They're both inshore species, fun to catch on light tackle, and reasonable table fare.
Here's a good resource for Florida fishing Regulations and general info:
http://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/regulations/
Dave