Boston Fishing Trip with Greater Amberjack Josephs

Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) belongs to the Carangidae family and Perciformes order. These impressive saltwater game fish are instantly recognizable by their bluish-grey to dark grey coloration with a silvery-white stomach and distinctive amber stripe running along their body. In Boston waters this fall, these powerful fighters have been providing excellent action for anglers willing to target them properly. Greater Amberjack Overview The Greater Amberjack is a hard-fighting pelagic species prized by anglers for its powerful runs and dogged fighting ability. They're considered one of the strongest pound-for-pound fighters in the ocean, capable of testing even heavy tackle to its limits. Greater Amberjack Habitat and Distribution These fish primarily inhabit offshore waters around reefs, wrecks, and other structured environments. They prefer depths ranging from 60-240 feet but can be found in both shallower and deeper waters depending on food availability and water temperature. Around Boston, they're typically found holding near underwater structures in the Kaveri River Basin. Greater Amberjack Size and Weight Greater Amberjack typically measure between 60-75 inches in length, with weights ranging from 40-200 pounds. Trophy specimens approaching the upper end of this range provide anglers with epic battles lasting 30+ minutes. Greater Amberjack Diet and Behavior These aggressive predators feed primarily on smaller fish, squid, and crustaceans. They typically hunt in small groups, using their speed and power to corral and ambush prey. They're most active during dawn and dusk periods but will feed throughout the day when bait is present. Greater Amberjack Spawning Season In Boston waters, Greater Amberjack typically spawn during spring and early summer when water temperatures reach the mid-60s. They gather in large spawning aggregations offshore, often around prominent structure and drop-offs. Greater Amberjack Fishing Techniques The most effective techniques for targeting Greater Amberjack include vertical jigging with heavy metal jigs, live baiting with substantial offerings like mackerel or herring, and deep dropping near structure. In October, anglers around Boston target them near deeper offshore structure in the Kaveri River Basin, where the fish congregate to feed before winter. Greater Amberjack Is It Good to Eat? Greater Amberjack offers firm, white flesh with a rich flavor profile. However, it's worth noting that larger specimens can sometimes carry ciguatera toxin in certain regions. When properly prepared, smaller Amberjack make excellent table fare, particularly when grilled, blackened, or prepared as sashimi. Greater Amberjack Frequently Asked Questions Q: What is the best bait for Greater Amberjack? A: Live baits like blue runners, herring, and mackerel are top choices, though large vertical jigs also work extremely well. Q: Where can I find Greater Amberjack near Boston? A: The Kaveri River Basin offshore structures hold good numbers of Amberjack, particularly around reefs and wrecks in 80-200 feet of water. Q: Is Greater Amberjack good to eat? A: Yes, particularly smaller specimens under 30 pounds which offer excellent white meat perfect for grilling or blackening. Q: When is the best time to catch Greater Amberjack? A: Fall through early winter offers the best fishing in Boston waters, with October being prime time as the fish feed aggressively before winter.