Amberjack Fishing in the Florida Keys

The Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) is a common game fish in the Florida keys. They range from depths of fifteen feet to over 400 feet of water. They frequent heavy structure such as large ship wrecks and sea mounts. Juveniles are found around shallow reefs and small inshore wrecks. Occasionally, large A.J.’s or reef donkeys (as they are sometimes called) will move into a shallow water wreck where they may be targeted by sport fishermen on very light tackle.

Many years ago, we perfected a technique whereby we tease these bruins to the surface with live blue runners and get them so exited that they sometimes run into the boat and kick huge plumes of water into the air, soaking the angler in the process. The angler can then present the lure to his choice of contenders and the battle then ensues. It is one of the most visual and exciting forms of fishing ever developed.

At the current time, we have to our credit, the largest Amberjack ever taken on a fly rod. Using this technique, Dr. William Monroe landed a giant 103 lb. 12 oz. monster for the largest A.J. ever taken on a fly rod and is still the I.G.F.A. world record. We also hold numerous other line class I.G.F.A. world records, both mens and women, for this species.

Amberjack is a popular species for making fish dip. Recipes for cooking Amberjack as well as other types of fish can be found on our Weekly Recipes page.