Jack Crevalle Fishing Made Easy: Land More Today

1. Understanding Crevalle Jacks

Crevalle jacks (Caranx hippos), commonly referred to as “jacks,” are predatory fish found in coastal waters worldwide. They are known for their powerful runs and aggressive strikes, making them a thrill for any angler. Jacks are opportunistic feeders, often chasing schools of smaller fish, crabs, and shrimp, which they ambush with lightning speed.

These fish can grow large, with some specimens exceeding 30 pounds, and they are known for their resilience and fighting abilities. Crevalle jacks are often found in shallow bays, estuaries, and reef areas, though they are also known to frequent deeper offshore waters. Knowing where to target them is key to a successful catch.

2. Best Times to Fish for Crevalle Jacks

Timing is everything when fishing for crevalle jacks. These fish are active during specific conditions:

• Early Morning & Late Afternoon: Crevalle jacks are most active during low light conditions, such as early morning and late afternoon. These periods coincide with feeding times when the fish are hunting for prey.
• Tide Changes: Jacks are often more aggressive during incoming and outgoing tides, as the changing water flows stir up baitfish. Targeting them around these times can yield better results.
• Overcast Days: Cloudy skies reduce the glare on the water, allowing jacks to feel more secure in their hunting. Overcast conditions can be a great time to catch them, as they are more likely to feed aggressively.

3. Top Baits for Crevalle Jacks

Crevalle jacks are not picky eaters but are especially drawn to fast-moving prey. Below are some of the best baits to use when targeting them:

• Live Bait: Jacks love live bait like small menhaden, pinfish, or mullet. Their predatory nature means they’ll be attracted to the movement of the live bait.
• Cut Bait: If live bait isn’t available, cut bait can work well. Shrimp, mullet, or other oily fish make for great cut baits when presented correctly.
• Artificial Lures: Jacks are notorious for chasing lures, particularly those that mimic fast-moving fish. Topwater lures like poppers, pencil plugs, or subsurface lures like spoons and jigs are perfect. Bright colors and erratic movements often trigger aggressive strikes.

4. Tackle and Gear for Crevalle Jacks

Crevalle jacks are strong and fast, so your gear needs to be up to the task. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Rod & Reel: A medium to heavy spinning or conventional rod (7-8 feet) with a fast action is ideal for crevalle jacks. Choose a reel with a strong drag system, capable of handling the powerful runs of these fish.
• Line: Use braided line in the 30-50lb test range for its strength and sensitivity. This helps to handle the strength of a crevalle jack and ensures you can detect bites more easily.
• Leader Line: A 40-60lb fluorocarbon leader is essential to prevent break-offs from the jacks’ sharp teeth. Fluorocarbon is less visible in the water, making it a great choice for clear conditions.
• Hooks: Use strong, corrosion-resistant hooks in the 3/0 to 6/0 range. Circle hooks are an excellent option for catch-and-release, but J-style hooks can also work well for securing the fish in the mouth.

5. Best Techniques for Catching Crevalle Jacks

When fishing for crevalle jacks, your technique plays a huge role in your success. Here are some top methods:

• Casting & Retrieving: Cast your bait or lure near schools of baitfish, structure, or drop-offs. Retrieve it with quick, jerky motions to mimic a fleeing fish. Jacks are attracted to the erratic movement, so make sure to vary your retrieve speed to keep them interested.
• Drifting or Trolling: In deeper waters or when targeting jacks in open water, drifting or trolling with live bait or artificial lures can be effective. Make sure to maintain a steady speed and keep an eye on your sonar to find schools of jacks.
• Working the Surface: If you’re using topwater lures, make sure to retrieve them with quick, sharp jerks to create splashes and commotion on the water’s surface. This can draw the attention of nearby jacks.
• Casting to Schools: Crevalle jacks often hunt in schools, so if you spot a school of baitfish being chased by jacks, cast directly into the school and work the lure quickly through the action.

6. Fishing Locations for Crevalle Jacks

Crevalle jacks can be found in a variety of locations, but knowing where to target them can significantly improve your chances:

• Coastal Flats and Shallows: Crevalle jacks often feed in shallow coastal areas, where they can ambush schools of smaller fish. Look for sandy or muddy flats near structures like rocks, piers, or drop-offs.
• Reefs & Wrecks: Jacks frequently patrol reefs and wrecks, where they hunt for baitfish. These areas also attract a variety of other predatory species.
• Estuaries and Inlets: During specific times of the year, jacks will move into estuaries and inlets in search of food. Look for jacks near the mouths of rivers or tidal creeks during active feeding periods.
• Offshore Waters: Larger crevalle jacks often move into deeper, offshore waters. If you’re fishing from a boat, consider trolling at depths between 40-100 feet where these big jacks roam.

7. Handling & Releasing Crevalle Jacks

Crevalle jacks are hardy fish, but proper handling is essential for their survival, especially if you plan to release them:

• Minimize Handling: Keep the fish in the water as much as possible to reduce stress. When you need to handle them, use a fish grip or a wet towel to avoid damaging their skin or gills.
• Proper Hook Removal: If you’re using circle hooks, they will often hook the fish in the corner of the mouth, making removal easier. Use pliers or hook removers to gently remove the hook. For deeply hooked fish, cutting the line close to the hook is better than attempting to remove it.
• Reviving the Fish: Before releasing, ensure the jack is revived by gently holding it by the tail and moving it back and forth in the water. This helps to restore its oxygen levels and ensures a safe release.

Final Thoughts

Catching crevalle jacks is a rewarding challenge, but it requires the right knowledge, equipment, and techniques. By following these tips on timing, bait selection, tackle, and fishing techniques, you’ll be well on your way to landing more jacks and having an unforgettable fishing experience. Whether you’re casting from the shore or trolling offshore, the thrill of hooking a powerful crevalle jack will make all the effort worthwhile. Happy fishing!