Greater Amberjack
Seriola dumerili
Called the reef donkey for good reason — the strongest pound-for-pound fighter on deep structure
📅 When to Fish
Habitat
Deep reefs and wrecks, 60-300 feet. One of the most powerful fighters in saltwater, notorious for running straight down into structure.
Best Season
Year-round in Gulf, spring-fall on Atlantic reefs. Federal seasons apply — verify NOAA regulations.
Best Times
Any time — especially active at dawn and dusk around structure.
Record
155 lbs 10 oz (Al Ringold, 1981)
Ideal Water Temp
65–82°F
Top Lures & Baits
- •Live pinfish (best)
- •Jigging spoon (slow pitch)
- •Large bucktail jig
- •Swimming plug trolled over reef
- •Live baitfish on circle hook
🔍 Identification
Bronze-olive back, silver-white sides. Diagonal amber stripe from eye to tail — especially visible in juveniles. Deeply forked tail.
🍽️ Eating Quality
Fair to good — white firm meat but can have strong flavor. Best smoked or as sashimi. Check local ciguatera advisories before consumption.
📍 Where to Find It
🎣 Beginner Tip
Amberjack run straight down when hooked — use heavy tackle (50-80 lb) and keep pressure constant from the start. They will wrap your line around the wreck if you give even a moment of slack.