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Amberjack fishing
To find this predator, fishing with livebait is a highly effective technique. Preferably use a natural live fish such as red squid, tuna or bonito, caught in the area. A livebait mounted on a strong single hook (size 4/0 to 8/0) or an assist/triple hook for large livebaits, with a sinker attached to the line with a rubber band (100-200 g) for rapid descent. Let the fish swim freely 30 m from the bottom in summer or winter, or near the thermocline in autumn. Use a balloon and coloured braid to adjust depth. The touch is violent: go hard!
Fishing for amberjack with vertical jigging
Speed jigging is done with lively animations and jigs weighing from 100 to 300 g on a 50 lb rod. This technique is ideal for larger specimens (>20 kg). Powerful multiple hooking is required.
Slow jigging is practised with lighter jigs (50-100 g) in slow pitch or long fall, with the jig fluttering in open water. A technique to use when speed jigging fails.
For the search for small fish (fish to be caught exclusively by no-kill) light jigging use jigs weighing less than 100 g on a 20-30 lb.âeuros rod
Different techniques to be practiced with a depth sounder on wrecks or drop-offs between 50 and 150 m depth.
Other techniques available from a boat
Amberjack can also be caught on the dead fish or fireball . We then attach a mullet or squid to the triple hooks, with a 100 to 200 gram lead in the head. Slow vertical fishing for prospecting close to the bottom.âeuros
Downrigger fishing can also be set up and consists of a precise slow drag to explore different water layers. Two rods can be used at different depths.âeuros
Fishing for amberjack with surface lures is rare and spectacular in the Mediterranean, particularly in summer on rocky coasts or near river mouths. It targets active fish on the surface, often in a frenzy. It can be practised with p oppers, stickbaits and sliders.
Fishing for amberjack from the shore
Shore jigging is a dynamic technique for targeting amberjack (Seriola dumerili) from shore, particularly on rocky Mediterranean coasts. It is generally practised early in the morning or at dusk.
Ideal zones
Prospect strong drop-offs with great depths at casting distance (50-100 m). Amberjacks head for shore at dawn or before dark. Choose spots with rocky bottoms or wrecks accessible from the shore.
Recommended equipment
- Rod: 2.70-3.20 m, power 20-50 lb, fast action for jigs 60-150 g.
- Reel: Size 5000-14000, powerful brake (>20 kg), for 300 m PE 2.5-4 braid (approx. 30-50 lb).
- Line: Fine braid + fluorocarbon leader 80-100 lb (1-1.5 m). Hameçons assist hooks.âeurosâeuros
- Jigs: Casting jigs 60-120 g (slims or needle for speed).
Animation
Start close to the bottom with slow jerks, then accelerate in open water: series of fast upward pulls (speed jig), interspersed with pauses to let the lure float. Count down the seconds to explore the different water layers. When the lure hits the water, remember to strike hard several times and, above all, to anticipate the fish's release from the bank without taking unnecessary risks.
