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African Threadfish

Alectis alexandrina

African ThreadfishAI-generated illustration

The African Threadfish (Alectis alexandrina) is a striking, silvery jack prized for its strong, fast runs and impressive aerial acrobatics. Found around coastal reefs and lagoons in the western Indian Ocean, it offers an exciting fight for medium‑to‑large tackle and is also enjoyed as a flavorful table fish.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Carangidae

Max Size

80 cm (31 inches) length, up to 7 kg (15 lbs) weight

Habitat

Coastal reefs, lagoons and nearshore waters 20‑100 m depth in the western Indian Ocean (East Africa, Red Sea)

Best Season

November to April (warmer months in southern hemisphere)

Best Time

Early morning and late evening (low light periods)

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for African Threadfish

  • Target structure such as reefs, wrecks or drop‑offs where threadfish ambush prey
  • Use live bait like sardines, pilchards or shrimp on a fast‑recovering jig or hook‑bait rig
  • Cast bright‑colored surface poppers or metal jigs and retrieve with intermittent pauses to trigger strikes
  • Maintain a strong drag and steady pressure; the fish will make rapid, powerful runs and occasional jumps

Top Fishing Locations for African Threadfish

Baa Atoll

Maldives
intermediate70% Very Common

World‑renowned marine reserve with abundant large reef predators, including African Threadfish attracted to steep drop‑offs and coral walls.

Best: November‑April

Aldabra Atoll

Seychelles
intermediate65% Common

Remote atoll with pristine reefs; strong currents bring in pelagic species, making it a hotspot for threadfish during spawning migrations.

Best: April‑October

Christmas Island (South‑West Coast)

Australia
intermediate78% Very Common

Isolated island where threadfish are drawn to the deep reef edges and nutrient‑rich upwellings; popular with charter vessels.

Best: March‑May

Lamu Island

Kenya
intermediate55% Common

East African coastal archipelago with extensive coral platforms; threadfish often ambush around wrecks and drop‑offs.

Best: October‑December

Paje Reef

Tanzania
beginner45% Occasional

Shallow reef system near Zanzibar; frequent threadfish sightings on the reef crest during the southeast monsoon.

Best: June‑September

Ras Mohammed National Park

Egypt
intermediate60% Common

Red Sea’s most iconic dive area; strong currents and steep walls attract large reef fish, including threadfish during their seasonal peak.

Best: September‑November

Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park

Philippines
expert35% Occasional

Remote UNESCO World Heritage site with pristine coral walls; threadfish are present but require expert tactics to target.

Best: March‑May

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for African Threadfish

Recommended Equipment

Rod7‑9 ft medium‑heavy spinning or baitcasting rod with fast action
Line20‑30 lb test monofilament or 30‑40 lb test braided line with a 20‑30 lb leader
Lure TypeMetal spoons, surface poppers, soft‑plastic swimbaits, or fast‑recovery jigs
TechniqueCasting and retrieving around reef edges or trolling near structures

Best bait: Live sardines, pilchards, shrimp or small baitfish