The amberjack, for sea fishermen in search of big fish

© Antonin Perrotte-Duclos

Majestic and a true sport fish, the amberjack is one of the most beautiful fish to be caught on our coasts. In France, it is mainly found in the Mediterranean and North Atlantic.

Crowned amberjack

Un prédateur féroce
A fierce predator

A member of the carangidae family, the amberjack (Seriola dumerili), or crowned amberjack, can approach 2 meters in length and weigh over 70 kilos. A pelagic fish, the amberjack lives in large schools when young, then in small schools of a few individuals as an adult. Its back is blue-green, while its sides and belly are silvery to white. Its eye is crossed by a dark band. Depending on the weather, amberjack reproduce in spring or summer.

A carnivorous fish

The amberjack is a formidable predator, thanks to its swimming speed and power. It feeds on fish such as mackerel, redfish and mullet, as well as molluscs such as cuttlefish and squid. It generally lives in open water at depths of between 15 and 80 meters. It can be found at greater depths, up to 200 meters. The amberjack may move closer to shore in search of forage fish.

Different fishing techniques

Pêcher la sériole en kayak
Fishing for amberjack in a kayak

To fish for amberjack, a boat is essential. Amberjack fishing can be done from a boat, of course, but also from a kayak. You can fish for amberjack with livebait, or with the fireball technique, using mullet, garfish or other squid. Jigging is also a great way to catch beautiful fish. When conditions are right, amberjack can also be fished with surface lures such as poppers.

Real battles

Because of its weight and power, the amberjack is a formidable fighter. Once hooked, the fish will probe to reach the bottom. This is when you need to contain the fish's rushes to prevent your line from making contact with the bottom and breaking. Memorable battles when you hit fish weighing over 30 kilos.

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