Almaco Jack Fishing in Miami
Seriola rivoliana
Almaco jacks are the smaller, taller cousin of the amberjack. They are found over deep wrecks and reefs, often mixed in with amberjack schools. They fight hard for their size and are one of the best-eating jacks.
Quick facts
Most are 20 to 30 inches long.
Large fish are uncommon.
Taller and shorter than an amberjack, with a long, sickle-shaped dorsal fin.
Often with amberjack.
Over deep structure.
Where to catch them off Miami
Deep wrecks
Mixed with amberjack over sunken ships.
Deep ledges
Rocky ledges in deep water.
Artificial reefs
Deeper reef sites off Miami.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
Almaco jacks are caught all year over deep structure.
Best time and conditions
Moving water
Current over a wreck gets them feeding.
Cooler months
Often good with the amberjack bite.
Techniques and baits
Vertical jigging
Heavy jigs worked fast.
Live bait
A live bait near the bottom.
Heavy tackle
They pull hard toward structure.
Fast cranking
Keeps them out of the wreck.
Top baits and lures
- Vertical jigs
- Live pilchards
- Goggle-eyes
- Squid
Florida regulations
Almaco jack rules have changed in recent years. We confirm the current limit before keeping any. On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Amberjack and jack rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Excellent. Many anglers rate almaco above amberjack for the table.
Which charter is best?
Full Day Fishing
- $1,200 per trip
- 8 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 6 guests
- Also targets Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, King Mackerel, Blackfin Tuna, Cobia, Tripletail, Amberjack, Shark and Barracuda
Saltwater Inshore
- $650 per trip
- 4 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 4 guests
- Also targets Snook, Tarpon, Barracuda, Snapper, Cubera Snapper, Schoolmaster Snapper, Grouper, Hogfish, Grunt and Amberjack
Almaco Jack FAQ
When is almaco jack season in Miami?
All year over deep wrecks and reefs.
How is an almaco different from an amberjack?
It is taller, shorter and usually smaller, with a longer dorsal fin.
Are almaco jacks good to eat?
Yes, very good.
How deep are almaco jacks?
Usually 100 to 300 feet.
Which charter is best for almaco jack?
The Full Day offshore trip.
Can I cancel my trip?
Free cancellation up to 3 days (72 hours) before your trip. This applies to every trip, including iguana hunts and snorkeling. To cancel, call Capt. Charles at (305) 972-5659 or email saltyfreshfishingcharters@gmail.com.