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Japanese amberjack

Seriola quinqueradiata

Japanese amberjack© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

Japanese amberjack, also known as buri, is a fast‑growing pelagic snapper prized for its firm, buttery flesh and strong, steady fight that makes it a favorite among sport anglers.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Carangidae

Max Size

150 cm

Max Weight

40 kg

Habitat

marine

Climate

subtropical

Best Season

Late spring to early autumn (May‑September)

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Japanese amberjack

  • Use live bait such as sardines or anchovies near structure where amberjack congregate.
  • Trolling with shallow‑running metal spoons or diving plugs at 3‑5 kn knots can cover large areas efficiently.
  • Employ a fast, jerking retrieve with soft plastic jerkbaits to trigger a predatory strike.
  • Maintain a sturdy drag (30‑40 lb) as amberjack are strong fighters and will make long runs.

Top Fishing Locations for Japanese amberjack

Ogasawara (Chichijima) Islands

Japan
expert85% Very Common

Remote archipelago with abundant Japanese amberjack around steep drop-offs and wrecks, a premier destination for serious anglers.

Best: June-September

Kerama Islands, Okinawa

Japan
intermediate78% Very Common

Clear waters and strong currents attract large amberjack schools; popular for both charter and reef fishing.

Best: May-October

Tokyo Bay (Katsushima)

Japan
beginner70% Very Common

Accessible from the capital; seasonal runs of Japanese amberjack near the bay's sandbanks and artificial reefs.

Best: July-September

Jeju Island

South Korea
intermediate65% Common

Rocky coastline and nutrient‑rich waters create excellent amberjack habitat, especially around Seogwipo.

Best: June-September

Christmas Island

Australia
expert75% Very Common

Remote Indian Ocean outpost where amberjack congregate near the lagoon’s edge; limited access makes trips exclusive.

Best: April-October

Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur

Mexico
intermediate60% Common

Pacific currents bring Japanese amberjack into the Cabo region during late summer; popular with sport‑fishing charters.

Best: July-September

Noumea Reef, New Caledonia

France
expert55% Common

Tropical reef system with deep channels that attract sizable amberjack; a bucket‑list spot for Pacific anglers.

Best: September-December

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Japanese amberjack

Recommended Equipment

Rod5‑6 ft medium‑heavy spinning or baitcasting rod, fast action
Line30‑50 lb test monofilament or 30‑40 lb test braided line
Lure TypeMetal spoons, diving plugs, and soft plastic jerkbaits; alternatively, live sardines
TechniqueTrolling and casting near structures with fast retrieves

Best bait: Live sardines, anchovies, or mackerel; cut bait can also work