8 Jack Crevalle Fishing Tips: How to Catch a Powerhouse
By Alycia Downs
Jan 15, 2019
Eight jack crevalle fishing tips and techniques. Where to find jack crevalle and how to catch them successfully.
Powerhouses of the sea, jack crevalle (or crevalle jack) are a highly underrated fish species in the spectrum of game fish. Fighting a jack is an adrenaline-worthy thrill for anglers of all skill levels. Many people consider it a “trash fish” because it’s not good table fare and anglers generally don’t target jack crevalle intentionally.
However, most true sportsmen welcome an opportunity to put their skills to the test which is exactly what you’ll find when you encounter a jack crevalle, the hardest fighting fish for its size. Here are eight jack crevalle fishing tips that will increase your chances of a successful hook-up.
1. Look for Action “boiling” on the Water’s Surface
Jack crevalle fish are aggressive feeders and their presence is often identified by an area of water that appears to be “boiling.” This is caused by small schools of hungry jack devouring baitfish near the surface. Cast anything with a hook into the middle of the action and you’re sure to hook a rod-bender.
2. Use Large live baits such as mullet, herring, or pilchards (sardines)
While live bait is probably the more obvious of jack crevalle fishing tips, it’s true that they just can’t resist the appeal of a lively baitfish.
3. For Artificial, use Topwater plugs, Spoons, and Bucktail jigs
Anything that’s noisy or disrupts the water will get the attention of a voracious jack crevalle.
4. Retrieve Fast!
Jack crevalle fishing techniques are far from complicated. No need to slow-twitch or soak a bait. Jack are drawn to fast-moving targets, so whether you are using spinning gear or fly gear, retrieve quickly with hard, fast jerks.
5. Fish Open water areas Inshore and Offshore
Major inlets, offshore wrecks and reefs, deep bays and canals are all prime areas where jacks can be found. A great jack crevalle fishing technique includes casting near seawalls where jack often corral mullet or other prey against the wall.
6. Use Substantial Tackle
Be sure you have at least 200 yards of line spooled up and use 20 lb. to 40 lb. monofilament leader, depending on the size of the fish.
7. Avoid Hook-setting the initial Thump
Jack crevalle will often compete against each other for baits and may not get hooked at their first attempt to blast the bait. Keep reeling until you feel a solid hook-up and the jack making a run.
8. Handle Carefully
Jack crevalle are just as powerful out of the water and should be handled with care. Avoid the sharp spines along their dorsal and don’t grab them by the lip as their jaws are very strong. Revive in the water before releasing.
Still not convinced? Read more jack crevalle fishing tips or browse our website for more general fishing tips. As always, make sure you have an up-to-date fishing license before you hit the water.
