Amberjack Fishing In the Florida Keys

Greater amberjacks are the largest of the jack family. They usually have darker stripes extending from the nose to the front of their dorsal fins. They’re usually less than 40 pounds but can reach up to over a hundred pounds. They’re found around reefs and wrecks and out at the Marathon humps. Amberjack are very strong fighters, tiring out even the most seasoned angler.

A.K.A. reef donkey. Average size between 15 to 50 pounds these guys can exceed 100 pounds in weight. Most people have no clue that they can easily hook up to a fish that fights so hard. They will test you with every ounce of strength and agility that you can muster. After hooking up to one of these guys you can never look at freshwater fishing the same again. It will ruin you!

For some reason or another, they have always been bagged as poor table food. This is truly not the case. With fish ranging from 28 inches to 34 inches and handled properly they are excellent eating. Don’t believe me, try one for yourself and I’ll make you a believer.