Jacks

Jacks are one of the world's fiercest fighting inshore species and make an excellent light tackle species. Jacks are very varied and have a wide range. They may be found all over the world in warm coastal waters. They may be found in the Atlantic Ocean from Nova Scotia to Uruguay and the Pacific Ocean from California to Australia. The Carangidae family of jacks includes the jack crevalle, horse-eye jacks, African pompanos, bluefin trevally, and the biggest of them, the gigantic trevally.

 

These jacks vary in appearance but share characteristics like sloping foreheads and large crescent-shaped tails. Although their markings and physical appearance are almost identical, even down to the black dots on the pectoral fins and gill plate, the IGFA classifies the Atlantic and Pacific jack crevalle as two distinct species. The bluefin trevally is the most visually appealing of the jack family, with its turquoise markings and blue fins. Both the gigantic trevally and the African pompano have obvious curving lateral lines, but the African pompano may be identified by its high forehead and dorsal fin.

 

Jacks often move in big groups and like to live on reefs and other inshore structures. During the day, they may be seen on rocky islands or reefs, while at night, they can be observed entering harbors, marinas, and channels to feed. Jacks are extremely adaptable since they can survive a wide range of salinities, from offshore reefs to high-saline flats to brackish water near river mouths and mangroves. They've also been known to infiltrate freshwater rivers near the coast, and a few lucky fishermen have been startled by them while traveling through the Panama Canal. Most jacks weigh between 15 and 30 pounds, whereas jack crevalle may weigh up to 50 pounds and the huge trevally can weigh more than 100 pounds.

 

Jack's Diet

Jacks are avid hunters that will eat at every chance they get. They typically consume other pelagic and inshore species but will also consume crabs, shrimp, and other crustaceans. They are nearly entirely game fish since the dark red flesh is not particularly appealing to most fishermen.

 

Where can you find Jack?

Jacks are an inshore light tackle species. They are frequently discovered at river mouths, reefs, and rocky islands. Trolling live bait nearly always results in bites, but nothing beats the thrill of seeing them erupt on the surface following your popper. You may also fly fish for feeding jacks if you come across their group.