Almaco Jack

Oceans & Range: All tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. In the Atlantic, found from New Jersey to Argentina including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. In the Pacific, from Southern California to Peru and throughout Hawaii and the Indo-Pacific. Associated with offshore structure — reefs, wrecks, buoys, and FADs — in 60–360 feet of water.

Preferred Water Temperature: 68°F–82°F. An offshore structure fish found in warm, clear tropical and subtropical water. Often found at greater depths than Greater Amberjack around the same types of structure.

Size & Weight: Typically 10–30 lbs. Trophy fish reach 80+ lbs. World record: 132 lbs from the Canary Islands. A close relative of the Greater Amberjack — similarly powerful but generally found in deeper water. Excellent eating, considered superior table fare to Greater Amberjack.

Best Lures: Large vertical jigs dropped to the base of offshore structure are the top technique. Heavy bucktail jigs produce strikes at depth. Large swimbaits work effectively when fish are mid-water. Jigging at 150–300 feet near wrecks and reefs is most productive.

Best Baits: Large live blue runners are the premier bait. Live pinfish and cigar minnows work well. Fresh whole squid produce consistent action. Large live pogies (menhaden) are excellent. Deep bottom rigs with cut bait catch fish at depth.

All tropical and subtropical oceans worldwide. In the Atlantic, found from New Jersey to Argentina including the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. In the Pacific, from Southern California to Peru and throughout Hawaii and the Indo-Pacific. Associated with offshore structure — reefs, wrecks, buoys, and FADs — in 60–360 feet of water.

68°F–82°F. An offshore structure fish found in warm, clear tropical and subtropical water. Often found at greater depths than Greater Amberjack around the same types of structure.

Best Lures: Large vertical jigs dropped to the base of offshore structure are the top technique. Heavy bucktail jigs produce strikes at depth. Large swimbaits work effectively when fish are mid-water. Jigging at 150–300 feet near wrecks and reefs is most productive. Best Baits: Large live blue runners are the premier bait. Live pinfish and cigar minnows work well. Fresh whole squid produce consistent action. Large live pogies (menhaden) are excellent. Deep bottom rigs with cut bait catch fish at depth.

Typically 10–30 lbs. Trophy fish reach 80+ lbs. World record: 132 lbs from the Canary Islands. A close relative of the Greater Amberjack — similarly powerful but generally found in deeper water. Excellent eating, considered superior table fare to Greater Amberjack.