Amberjack

Detailed Information on the Greater Amberjack

Appearance:
A dark stripe (variably present) extends from nose to in front of dorsal fin and “lights up” when fish is in feeding mode.
No scutes.
The soft dorsal base less than twice the length of the anal fin base.

Habitat:
Greater amberjack are an offshore species associated with rocky reefs, debris, and wrecks. They are typically in 60 – 240 feet of water and sometimes caught nearshore in south Florida. Juveniles are associated with floating objects and may occur in water less than 30 feet deep.

Behavior:
Great amberjacks are the largest of the jacks. These fish are thought to spawn offshore throughout most of the year. Greater amberjack feed on squid, fish, and crustaceans.

State Records:
Florida ~ 142 lb, caught near Islamorada