Jack Crevalle

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Jack Crevalle, a powerful and aggressive saltwater game fish, can be found in various bodies of water along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts of the South/Gulf region. They are known for their hard-hitting strikes and strong fighting abilities. The following bodies of water are popular for targeting jack crevalle
Alabama: Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, Fort Morgan, Dauphin Island.
Louisiana: Grand Isle, Venice, Calcasieu Lake, Lake Pontchartrain.
Mississippi: Biloxi, Gulfport, Pascagoula.
Texas: Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, Galveston, South Padre Island.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Jack crevalle inhabit a variety of habitats, ranging from inshore waters to offshore environments. They are often found near structure-rich areas such as jetties, bridges, piers, and nearshore reefs. Jack crevalle are also known to venture into estuaries, bays, and tidal creeks, particularly when following schools of baitfish.
Look for them in areas with strong current flows, as they are often found in the vicinity of tidal movements and feeding opportunities. Jack crevalle can be encountered both near the surface and at various depths, depending on the availability of prey and environmental conditions.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, jack crevalle become more active as the water temperatures rise. They can be found near jetties, bridges, and other structure-rich areas. Look for feeding frenzies and actively breaking fish, as this is a sign that jack crevalle are in the area. Topwater lures, such as poppers or surface plugs, can be effective in enticing strikes during this time.

SUMMER

In the summer, jack crevalle are commonly found nearshore, particularly around areas with strong current flows. They may venture into the surf zone and can be encountered along beaches and near sandbars. Look for diving birds, baitfish activity, and areas of turbulent water as indicators of jack crevalle feeding. Casting large swimbaits, spoons, or jigs can be productive in targeting these aggressive fish.

FALL

As fall arrives, jack crevalle remain active and continue to provide exciting fishing opportunities. They may move to deeper waters or remain in nearshore areas, depending on the availability of baitfish. Look for them near structure-rich areas, including jetties, piers, and nearshore reefs. Live bait presentations, such as mullet or pinfish, as well as fast-retrieving lures, can be effective when targeting jack crevalle during the fall.

WINTER

During the winter months, jack crevalle may retreat to deeper offshore waters or remain in areas with warmer water temperatures, such as estuaries or deep channels. They may be less active during this time, but can still be caught. Slow-presented lures, such as soft plastics or jigs, can entice strikes from jack crevalle. Pay attention to favorable weather conditions and consult local fishing reports to maximize your chances of success.

Jack crevalle are opportunistic predators and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Common bait options for jack crevalle fishing include live baitfish such as mullet or pinfish, as well as cut bait. Rigging the bait on a sturdy circle hook or a J-hook with a wire leader is recommended to prevent bite-offs.

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.