Greater Amberjack

Greater Amberjack is one of the hardest-fighting fish you can hook from a charter. Known as "reef donkeys" for their raw power, these bruisers test tackle and stamina on every encounter.

Charters target Amberjack over deep wrecks, reefs, and oil platforms in depths of 60 to 250 feet. Live bait such as blue runners, pinfish, and goggle eyes dropped near structure are the most effective approach. Amberjack often hold in the middle of the water column rather than right on the bottom, and they hit with conviction.

The fight is pure brute strength. Amberjack make powerful runs straight for the structure below, and if they reach it, the battle is over. You need a strong back, good tackle, and determination to turn a big AJ before it wraps you around a wreck. Fish in the 20 to 60 pound range are standard, with some exceeding 100 pounds.

Amberjack is good table fare when prepared properly. Smaller fish in the 15 to 30 pound range are best for eating, with firm, dense meat that is excellent grilled, blackened, or smoked. Larger fish can be wormy, so many anglers practice selective harvest.