Greater Amberjack

Category: Offshore

Trip Type: Offshore

Greater amberjack are powerful offshore fighters known for brute strength, long battles, and their reputation as one of the Gulf’s toughest reef fish.

Appearance

Greater amberjack are powerful, streamlined fish with bluish-brown backs, silvery sides, and a distinctive amber-colored stripe running from their nose through the length of their body. A dark band extends diagonally through each eye, giving them a recognizable appearance. Built for strength and speed, amberjack are among the hardest-fighting fish found around Gulf structure.

Habitat

Greater amberjack are commonly found around offshore reefs, wrecks, oil platforms, and other structure throughout the Gulf of Mexico. They often suspend above structure rather than hugging the bottom and can be found in waters ranging from 60 to more than 300 feet deep.

Average Size

Most greater amberjack caught in Louisiana waters weigh between 20 and 60 pounds, although fish exceeding 80 pounds are regularly encountered. Trophy fish can surpass 100 pounds.

Best Time to Catch

Greater amberjack can be targeted throughout much of the year when seasons are open. Fishing is often best around offshore structure where baitfish are abundant.

Fishing Tips

Live mullet, squid, porgies, and other baitfish are highly effective for targeting greater amberjack. Chumming can help draw fish closer to the boat, though it may also attract other species. Focus on reefs, wrecks, and oil platforms where amberjack gather around bait concentrations. Trophy-sized fish are often found around deeper offshore structure, including areas near the Mississippi Canyon.

Louisiana State Record

139 pounds — caught by Bill Weldon in 2009. This impressive catch remains Louisiana’s state-record greater amberjack and showcases the incredible size these powerful fish can achieve in Gulf waters.

Fun Fact

Greater amberjack are capable of following hooked fish to the surface and are known for stealing hooked bait from other anglers before it reaches the boat.