Amberjack

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Amberjack, known for their powerful fights and impressive size, can be found in the saltwater bodies surrounding the Southwest region of the United States. Anglers flock to these waters to target amberjack, seeking the thrill of battling these hard-fighting fish. Here are some typical coastal areas and regions where amberjack can be found:
California Coast: Along the California coastline, amberjack can be found in nearshore waters and offshore areas. Popular locations include the Channel Islands, Point Loma, La Jolla, and the waters around San Clemente Island. These areas provide ample opportunities to target amberjack using various fishing techniques.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Amberjack are often associated with underwater structures and areas with significant vertical relief. Understanding their preferred structure and habitat can greatly increase your chances of success. Here are some key features to consider:
Reefs and Wrecks: Amberjack are known to frequent artificial and natural reefs, as well as shipwrecks. These structures provide shelter and attract baitfish, which in turn draw in amberjack. Targeting these areas with vertical jigging, live bait, or trolling can yield good results.
Offshore Ridges: Submerged ridges and seamounts in offshore waters are also favored by amberjack. These underwater features can create upwellings and attract baitfish, providing ample forage for amberjack. Drifting or slow trolling around these structures can be effective.
Oil Rigs: In some areas, such as the Gulf of Mexico, offshore oil rigs can hold sizable populations of amberjack. These structures create an artificial reef environment, attracting various fish species including amberjack. Vertical jigging, live bait, or casting around the rigs can lead to success.

PATTERNS

Spring

During the spring months, amberjack become more active and move closer to the surface. They may be found near reefs, wrecks, and offshore structures. Vertical jigging, live bait, or casting with lures can be effective techniques during this time.

Summer

In the warmer summer months, amberjack tend to be more aggressive and actively feed. They can be found in various areas, including reefs, wrecks, and offshore ridges. Vertical jigging, live bait, or trolling can be successful methods for targeting amberjack during summer.

Fall

As the water begins to cool down in the fall, amberjack may move to deeper waters or seek out warmer areas. They can still be found around structures and offshore ridges. Adjusting your fishing techniques and targeting areas with better water conditions can increase your chances of success during this season.

Winter

In colder winter months, amberjack may be less active and less predictable in their behavior. They may move to deeper waters or seek shelter near underwater structures. Fishing with patience and targeting areas with more favorable conditions can improve your chances of landing amberjack during winter.

Amberjack are aggressive predators and will readily strike a variety of baits and lures. Common bait options include live baitfish such as mullet, menhaden, pinfish, or squid. Jigs, swimbaits, and topwater lures can also be effective when targeting these fish. Experimenting with different baitfish or lures can help you determine what works best on a given day.

Bait Fishing

How: Use live bait such as blue runners, pinfish, or squid. Fish near reefs, wrecks, or other underwater structures. Drop the bait down to the desired depth and let it drift or use a slow retrieve. Amberjack are voracious predators, so lively and enticing baits work best.
Gear: Rods: Heavy to extra-heavy spinning rods or conventional rods. Reels: 6000-8000 size spinning reels or conventional reels. Line: 40-80lb test braided line or monofilament. Hooks: Size 6/0-10/0 live bait hooks or circle hooks.

Jigging

How: Jigging is an effective technique for targeting amberjack. Use vertical jigs or butterfly jigs and drop them down to the desired depth near reefs, wrecks, or other structures. Jerk the rod tip upward to mimic a wounded baitfish and then let the jig flutter back down. Repeat this motion to entice strikes.
Gear: Rods: Heavy to extra-heavy spinning rods or conventional rods. Reels: 6000-8000 size spinning reels or conventional reels with high line capacity. Line: 50-80lb test braided line or monofilament. Leaders: 60-100lb fluorocarbon leaders. Jigs: Vertical jigs, butterfly jigs, or diamond jigs.

Trolling

How: Trolling can be an effective method for covering larger areas and locating amberjack. Use deep-diving plugs, skirted lures, or large spoons. Troll at a moderate speed near reefs, drop-offs, or other productive areas. Vary the trolling speed and adjust the depth to find the fish.
Gear: Rods: Heavy trolling rods. Reels: Lever drag trolling reels with high line capacity. Line: 50-80lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Deep-diving plugs, skirted lures, or large spoons.