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Crevalle jack

Caranx hippos

Crevalle jack© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Crevalle jack (Caranx hippos) is a fast, aggressive game fish found in coastal and brackish waters. It is popular for its strong fight and solid table quality, making it a favorite among both sport and food anglers.

Fight
Taste
Reports of ciguatera
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Carangidae

Max Size

124 cm

Max Weight

32 kg

Habitat

marine, brackish

Depth Range

1-350m

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Late spring through early fall (May-October)

Best Time

Early mornings and late evenings

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Crevalle jack

  • Target schools near shorelines, piers, and oyster reefs where they hunt smaller baitfish.
  • Use a fast-retrieving surface lure or live bait and keep the retrieve steady to trigger their predatory strikes.
  • Trolling with small live baitfish at 5-7 knots works well in open water and brackish estuaries.
  • When hooked, maintain steady pressure and allow the fish to run; use a strong drag to handle their sudden bursts.

Top Fishing Locations for Crevalle jack

Florida Keys

USA
beginner78% Very Common

Rich seagrass and reef structures attract large schools of Crevalle jack, especially around the Dry Tortugas and Marathon area.

Best: May-October

Exuma Cays

Bahamas
intermediate70% Very Common

Clear waters and abundant offshore reefs make Exuma a hotspot for Crevalle jack, often found chasing baitfish around the flats.

Best: April-September

Fernando de Noronha

Brazil
intermediate65% Common

Remote archipelago with strong currents that concentrate pelagic species; Crevalle jack are common around the volcanic outcrops.

Best: December-March

Durban Coast

South Africa
beginner55% Common

The warm Agulhas Current brings large baitfish schools, attracting Crevalle jack to the reef-lined beaches near Umhlanga.

Best: October-April

Great Barrier Reef – Lizard Island

Australia
intermediate68% Common

Tropical reef ecosystems host abundant Crevalle jack, especially around drop-offs and reef channels during the wet season.

Best: November-April

Isla Mujeres

Mexico
beginner72% Very Common

Coastal mangroves and nearby reef systems provide ideal feeding grounds for Crevalle jack, often found near the breakwater.

Best: June-September

Palawan (El Nido)

Philippines
expert60% Common

Crystal-clear waters and steep reef walls attract large schools of Crevalle jack, especially during the northwest monsoon.

Best: November-March

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Crevalle jack

Recommended Equipment

RodMedium-heavy spinning or conventional rod, 7-8 ft, fast action
Line20-30 lb test monofilament or equivalent braided line
Lure TypeSurface poppers, fast-running minnows, jigs, and metal spoons
TechniqueLive bait trolling or casting with fast-retrieving lures, targeting schools near structures

Best bait: Live or cut bait such as sardines, pilchards, or mullet