Also known as: Jackfish, Commonjack, Jack, Jackfish
Crevalle Jacks are pugnacious-looking fish which live up to those looks. A dark spot on the gill cover and steeply convex forehead separate this species from other jackfish. Strong bony scutes on the tail are common to all jacks. The average size in Texas waters is 2-5 pounds, but larger sizses are common and 25 pounds is not unusual. The Texas record is 52.25 inches, 50.25 pounds; 1976.
Life History: Spawning occurs in the Gulf and juveniles are abundant in the surft, frequently moving into bays. Small jacks run in schools near structure in the bays. Larger fish run offshore aound the mouths of passes and rivers, but often move into bays in September and October.
Distribution: Throughout the Gulf
Habitat & Range
Throughout its lifetime, the crevalle jack lives from the shoreline to open waters in the Gulf of Mexico -- moving in and out annually.
Jacks can caught in most Texas coastal waters, depending on when you are fishing. Small fish can be caught in the surf and large fish run in schools near bridges and other structures and often around mouths of passes and rivers.
Life History
Spawning occurs in the Gulf and juveniles are abundant in the surft, frequently moving into bays. Small jacks run in schools near structure in the bays. Larger fish run offshore aound the mouths of passes and rivers, but often move into bays in September and October.
License & Regulations
A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-residents, and short-term durations (1-day, 5-day, and annual). Freshwater and saltwater endorsements may be required for certain waters. Purchase online through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or at authorized license retailers throughout the state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Life History
Spawning occurs in the Gulf and juveniles are abundant in the surft, frequently moving into bays. Small jacks run in schools near structure in the bays. Larger fish run offshore aound the mouths of passes and rivers, but often move into bays in September and October.
Habitat
Throughout its lifetime, the crevalle jack lives from the shoreline to open waters in the Gulf of Mexico -- moving in and out annually. Jacks can caught in most Texas coastal waters, depending on when you are fishing. Small fish can be caught in the surf and large fish run in schools near bridges and other structures and often around mouths of passes and rivers.
Fishing Tips
Best angling for these strong fighters is from May to August with almost any bait or lure. Once hooked, the common jack is tenacious with hard drives toward the bottom and frequent straightening of hooks.
Interesting Facts
The Crevalle jack has edible flesh, but is not considered very desirable for food.
Distribution
Throughout the Gulf
Regulations
Texas fishing regulations apply to Crevalle Jack. A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers 17 and older. Bag and size limits vary by species and water body. Some species have catch-and-release only restrictions or special tournament regulations. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Outdoor Annual for current regulations specific to your fishing location. Possession limits in Texas are twice the daily bag limit unless otherwise noted.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | Fishing | License | License & Fees | A valid Texas fishing license is required for anglers age 17 and older. Licenses are available for residents, non-reside | Link |
