The Almaco Jack is a lesser known member of the Carangidae family, with typical Jack-like game qualities, albeit rarely specifically targeted by recreational anglers.

How big

The common size is 10 to 20lbs and around 35'', with fish growing over 60'' and 130lbs.

Distribution

The species is found globally in tropical and, sometimes, temperate waters. They are abundant off small and large landmasses in the Indo-West Pacific, range from California to Peru in the eastern Pacific (including the Galápagos Islands) and from Cape Cod to Argentina in the western Atlantic (rare off the Carolinas). They are seldom found in the eastern Atlantic, but are existent around the British Isles and in the Mediterranean Sea.

Almaco Jacks spawn offshore spring through fall.

How to catch

This species of Jacks is mostly caught recreationally while fishing for for other game fish. They can be caught on live or dead, whole or cut baitfish, but also on squid and shrimp. Various jigs, plugs and spoons will be effective as well.

Good to eat?

Larger Almacos are known to cause ciguatera (fish poisoning) and are avoided because of this. However, smaller ones have delicious meat that can easily pass off as Albacore quality.