GREATER AMBERJACK (Seriola dumerili) The greater amberjack is the largest of the jack species and the fish takes it's name from the amber colored stripe that runs along the sides of their body. Greater amberjack are an olive-brown or green-blue color above the lateral line, though they can sometimes appear purple. Below the lateral line coloration is silver-white. A dark olive-brown stripe runs diagonally from the mouth to the first dorsal fin which tends to become brighter when they are excited.

 

IGFA All Tackle Record Weight: M-37kg (80lb) 70.64kg (155lb 12oz) Bermuda 08/16/1992 Larry Trott

 

Typical Range: Wide ranging and migratory throughout the subtropical waters in every major ocean throughout the world, yet the largest concentration is found in the western Atlantic Ocean. The greater amberjack swims at any depth from the surface to the seabed roaming the edges of major currents. They are primarily an offshore species that prefers various structures located on the sea bottom, such as reefs, shipwrecks, buoys and oil rigs.

 

Common Tackle: Tackle selection may inclue light-action spinning rods with line weights as low as 6 pounds, but such an outfit will not land a good-sized fish efficiently. Most anglers opt for medium- to medium heavy-action spinning or boat rods, with large spinning or small conventional reels spooled with 15- to 30-pound line.

 

Common Fishing Method: Perhaps the most popular method is fishing with live or cut bait, though vertical jigging with bucktails and spoons is also effective. Usually lures are used in conjunction with cut bait. Any fishing technique can be used in pursuit of greater amberjack, as long as it can be worked in very deep water

 

Common Baits: Common baits include live gunts, menhaden, mullet, pinfish, blue runners or other small fish or fish strips. All varieties of trolled baits and artificials, lures, spoons and plugs work.

 


Preferred Temperature: Lower Avoidance: 65, Upper Avoidance: 82, Optimum: 70-80

 

Best time to fish: Spring through summer

 

Recipes:

BBQ Amberjack

Ingredients:
• 2 lbs Amberjack fillets
• Cooking oil
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Your favorite BBQ sauce (sharp)

• Rum

Preperation

• Cut fillets into serving sized portions
• Wipe with cloth or paper towel
• Sprinkle with lemon juice
• Brush well with oil
• Prepare a basting sauce of oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper, and BBQ sauce, adding seasonings to taste
• Add a few drops of rum to the sauce
• Place on a greased grill over hot coals and cook for a few minutes on each side, basting frequently

 
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