Loading map...
♥ Donate

Longjaw leatherjacket

Oligoplites altus

Longjaw leatherjacket© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Bigmouth Leatherjacket is a popular game fish known for its strong fighting ability and is often targeted by anglers in coastal waters. It is a species of leatherjacket fish that inhabits warm, coastal waters and is prized for its challenging fight. While not the most sought-after for food, it provides a thrilling catch for recreational anglers.

Fight
Taste
Venomous

Basic Information

Family

Carangidae

Max Size

56 cm

Max Weight

1.6 kg

Habitat

marine, brackish

Climate

tropical

Best Season

Year-round in tropical waters, with peaks during warmer months

Best Time

Early morning or late afternoon when waters are generally calmer

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Longjaw leatherjacket

  • Use light to medium tackle as Bigmouth Leatherjackets can put up a significant fight relative to their size.
  • Target areas with structure such as reefs, rocks, or weed beds where they are known to forage.
  • Try using small to medium-sized lures that mimic their natural prey, such as small fish or crustaceans.
  • Pay attention to tidal cycles; they are more active during changing tides.

Top Fishing Locations for Longjaw leatherjacket

Rio Grande Estuary

Brazil
intermediate60% Common

The estuary's complex structure and abundant baitfish make it a prime location for Bigmouth Leatherjacket.

Best: November to March

Ilha Grande

Brazil
expert70% Very Common

The island's rocky reefs and weed beds are home to a healthy population of Bigmouth Leatherjacket.

Best: December to May

Uruguay Coast

Uruguay
beginner50% Common

The coastal waters off Uruguay offer a mix of sandy and rocky habitats that Bigmouth Leatherjacket frequent.

Best: October to April

La Plata River

Argentina/Uruguay
intermediate55% Common

The river's brackish waters and complex structure make it an ideal location for Bigmouth Leatherjacket.

Best: September to March

Santa Catarina Island

Brazil
expert65% Common

The island's diverse marine habitats, including reefs and estuaries, support a robust Bigmouth Leatherjacket population.

Best: January to June

Patos Lagoon

Brazil
beginner58% Common

The lagoon's vast, shallow waters and abundant baitfish create a perfect environment for Bigmouth Leatherjacket.

Best: November to February

Arraial do Cabo

Brazil
expert72% Very Common

The clear waters and rocky reefs off Arraial do Cabo are home to a significant Bigmouth Leatherjacket population.

Best: December to April

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Longjaw leatherjacket

Recommended Equipment

RodLight to medium action spinning or baitcasting rod
Line4-8 kg (10-15 lbs) test line
Lure TypeSmall to medium-sized jigs, spoons, or soft plastics
TechniqueCast near structure and retrieve with a steady or varied pace to imitate prey.

Best bait: Small fish, shrimp, or cut bait