Gulf Coast Fisherman Newsletter

Issue 8, August 2018

SPECIES SPOTLIGHT:

Greater Amberjack, Seriola dumerili

Known regionally as "reef donkeys" for their stubborn fight, these fish are a
tasty treat if you're lucky enough to land one.

Distribution

• Both Atlantic and Pacific oceans; in Western Atlantic, range extends from Nova Scotia to Brazil, including the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea
• Juveniles school around Sargassum mats in the Gulf of Mexico
• Sub-adults and adults inhabit seafloor structures, such as reefs, rocky outcrops, and wrecks, in depths of 60–240 feet

Biology

• Largest of the jacks
• Grow up to 6 feet long and live up to 15 years
• Can weigh up to 200 pounds, but are most commonly found up to 40 pounds
• Females grow larger and live longer than males
• Peak spawning occurs March–April in the Gulf of Mexico
• Feed on squid, fish, and crustaceans

Management

• Gulf of Mexico Greater Amberjack are overfished and undergoing overfishing
• The stock is currently under a rebuilding plan
• The fishery is dominated by recreational landings
• Recreational fishing is open August–October and in May
• Fixed closed seasons exist from November 1-April 30 and June 1–July 31
• These closed seasons protect the population during peak spawning and still allow for spring and fall harvest

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