If you’re looking for a fish that will test your strength and endurance, look no further than the Amberjack and other members of the Jack family found in the waters around the Dry Tortugas. Known for their relentless pulling power and willingness to strike, these fish provide some of the most physically demanding battles on a fishing charter.
Imagine hooking into a fish that immediately dives for the bottom and refuses to give an inch, testing your tackle and your resolve with powerful, sustained runs. That’s the experience of tangling with a big Dry Tortugas Jack.
This guide focuses on targeting Amberjack and other common Jack species found near the structures and deeper waters of the Dry Tortugas.
The Powerhouses: Understanding Amberjack and Jacks
The Carangidae family (commonly known as Jacks) includes a wide variety of species, and in the Dry Tortugas, the Greater Amberjack is the standout. Other related species like Almaco Jacks, Horse-eye Jacks, and even the elusive Permit can also be encountered.
- Greater Amberjack: Nicknamed “reef donkeys” due to their brute strength, these fish are found in schools around deep wrecks and natural ledges.
- Almaco Jack: Similar in body shape but more elongated and often slightly deeper dwelling than Amberjack.
- Other Jacks: While fishing reef edges or transitioning to flats, you may also see Blue Runners, Horse-eye Jacks, or Permit. These species are typically incidental catches unless specifically targeted.
If your main goal is to chase reef bruisers, bottom fishing in the Dry Tortugas is where the action happens.
Why Target Amberjack and Jacks?
- Incredible Fight: Pound for pound, Amberjack are among the strongest fighters in Florida waters.
- Structure-Oriented Abundance: They reliably congregate around wrecks and reefs.
- Aggressive Feeding Habits: These fish will slam baits and jigs without hesitation when feeding.
If you’re the type of angler who enjoys a physical challenge, this is one of the top gamefish to pursue during your Dry Tortugas fishing charter.
Techniques for Catching Amberjack and Jacks
Because these fish hug structure and fight dirty, the right techniques and tackle are essential:
- Live Bait Fishing: Hands-down the most effective. Live pinfish, sardines, grunts, or even blue runners are ideal. These baits are dropped to the zone where Amberjack hold—usually near the structure or slightly up-current.
- Jigging: Using heavy vertical jigs is an exciting method that can trigger aggressive strikes. Rapid, erratic jigging mimics injured prey and often brings a violent hit.
- Pitching Baits: From a drift or anchored position, casting live bait toward structure can be productive when fish are suspended higher in the water column.
- High-Speed Jigging: Less common but extremely effective for aggressive feeders. This style is demanding and requires specialized rods, reels, and stamina.
Structure is Critical — and Challenging
Amberjack thrive on structure, and they’ll use it to their advantage once hooked:
- Boat Positioning: Captains will place the boat precisely over the wreck or ledge.
- The “Get ’Em Out” Rule: Once hooked, you must pull hard and fast to get the fish away from the structure. If not, they’ll dive and break you off on sharp edges.
- Heavy Tackle Required: You’ll need 60–100+ lb braided line, heavy fluorocarbon leader, stout rods, and powerful drag systems.
For a deeper dive into how structure fishing plays a role in targeting reef fish, see our guide on Snapper & Grouper fishing in the Dry Tortugas.
Regulations and Considerations
- Seasonal Closures: Amberjack regulations—including open seasons, bag limits, and size minimums—vary. Your captain will ensure all rules are followed according to FWC regulations.
- Handling Tips: These are large fish, and bringing one aboard safely requires good technique. For catch-and-release, your captain may use venting tools or descending devices if the fish shows signs of barotrauma.
- Table Quality: Smaller Amberjacks can be decent table fare. Larger ones are sometimes avoided due to parasitic worms (which are less common in deeper, cleaner waters like the Dry Tortugas). Many anglers chase them solely for the sport and release them afterward.
Targeting Amberjack and their hard-fighting cousins is one of the most exciting pursuits in the Dry Tortugas. It’s an adrenaline-pumping workout that will leave your arms sore but your spirits high.
