Jack Crevalle

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Jack crevalle, a powerful and aggressive game fish, can be found in the coastal waters of Florida. They are commonly encountered in both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, inhabiting a range of habitats such as bays, inlets, beaches, and nearshore reefs.
Florida: Jack crevalle can be found along the entire coastline of Florida, both on the Atlantic side and the Gulf side. They are frequently encountered in areas such as the Florida Keys, Tampa Bay, Miami Beach, and the Gulf beaches. They are known for their willingness to chase down baitfish in open water as well as their presence near structures like jetties and bridges.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Jack crevalle are highly versatile and can be found in a variety of habitats within the coastal waters of Florida. They are often found near areas with strong currents, such as inlets and passes, where they can actively feed on baitfish being swept through by the tides. They are also commonly found near submerged structures, jetties, and bridges where baitfish congregate.
Look for jack crevalle near shallow flats, drop-offs, and channels where they can ambush prey. They are known to frequent areas with sandy or grassy bottoms, as well as areas with rocky or coral formations. Jack crevalle are opportunistic predators and will take advantage of any feeding opportunity they come across.They are also known to be found in the surf zone and around inlets.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, jack crevalle become more active and begin moving into shallower waters. Look for them near grassy flats, inlets, and along beaches. They are known to chase schools of baitfish and can be found near structures such as jetties and bridges. Fishing with fast-moving lures or live bait that imitates baitfish can be effective during this season.

SUMMER

In the summer, jack crevalle can be found in a variety of habitats depending on the availability of prey. They may move to deeper waters if the baitfish are located there. Look for them near inlets, passes, and along the beaches. Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can be productive during this season when the water temperatures are cooler.

FALL

As fall arrives, jack crevalle remain active and continue to feed aggressively. They may start moving back towards shallower waters as baitfish become more abundant near the coast. Look for them near grassy flats, inlets, and nearshore reefs. They are often found in areas with strong currents where baitfish are swept through. Use lures or live bait that imitate the prevalent baitfish species in your area.

WINTER

Winter can be a challenging time to target jack crevalle in Florida as they may move to deeper waters or seek warmer areas. However, they can still be found near inlets, jetties, and along beaches where baitfish are present. Fishing during warmer periods or in areas with slightly warmer water temperatures can increase your chances of success.

Jack crevalle are aggressive predators and will readily strike a variety of baits and lures. They are known to feed on live bait such as mullet, pinfish, and shrimp. Artificial lures such as topwater plugs, spoons, and jigs can also be effective in enticing strikes. Matching the size and color of your bait to the prevalent baitfish in the area can increase your chances of success.

Casting

How: Cast your bait or lure near schools of baitfish or around structures such as jetties, piers, or bridges. Jack crevalle are known for their voracious feeding habits and will aggressively strike a variety of offerings.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning or casting rods. Reels: Spinning or casting reels with a strong drag system. Line: 20-40lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 30-50lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 2-4 feet. Hooks: Size 2/0 to 4/0 live bait or circle hooks.

Live Bait

How: Use live baitfish such as mullet, sardines, or pilchards. Hook the baitfish through the lips or near the dorsal fin to keep it lively. Cast your bait near schools of baitfish or structures where jack crevalle are likely to be feeding.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning or casting rods. Reels: Spinning or casting reels with a strong drag system. Line: 20-40lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 30-50lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 2-4 feet. Hooks: Size 2/0 to 4/0 live bait or circle hooks.

Artificial Lures

How: Jack crevalle are aggressive and will strike a variety of artificial lures. Use fast-retrieving lures such as topwater plugs, spoons, jigs, or soft plastics. Vary your retrieve speed and technique until you find what triggers a reaction.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning or casting rods. Reels: Spinning or casting reels with a strong drag system. Line: 20-40lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 30-50lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 2-4 feet. Lures: Topwater plugs, spoons, jigs, or soft plastics.

Fly Fishing

How: Jack crevalle can provide an exhilarating experience for fly anglers. Use large streamer flies that imitate baitfish. Cast your fly near baitfish schools or structures and strip it in with quick, erratic movements to entice a strike.
Gear: Rods: 8-10 wt fly rods. Reels: Large-arbor reels with a strong drag system. Line: Weight-forward floating or intermediate fly lines. Leaders: 9-12ft 20-30lb fluorocarbon leaders with tippet sizes ranging from 12-16lb. Flies: Large streamer flies in baitfish patterns.