Types of Amberjack

Amberjacks are famous for their strength, fighting spirit and general difficulty to catch. It is also important to scientifically classify the differences between different types and species of amberjack. As part of the Carangidae family, there are three main types of amberjack, including greater amberjacks, lesser amberjacks and banded rudderfish.

  1. Greater Amberjacks

    • Greater amberjacks thrive in ocean expanses.

      Greater amberjacks are the largest amberjacks, usually weighing 20 to 50 pounds; some have been known to grow upwards of 150 pounds. Greater amberjacks have amber-brown stripe that runs from the nose to the front of the dorsal fin. These large fish act as aggressive predators, often feeding on a wide variety of smaller fish within the upper water column. Greater amberjacks are commonly found in waters with rock-strewn reefs, debris, obstructions and wrecks.

    Lesser Amberjacks

    • Lesser amberjacks are the smallest in the amberjack family. Most adults are less than 10 pounds and prefer to thrive in deeper waters. Visually, lesser amberjacks are characterized by a proportionally larger eye and deeper body. Adult fish are olive green in color and have a dark band that extends upwards from their eyes. Lesser amberjacks prefer to feed on squid, small fish and crustaceans.

    Banded Rudderfish

    • Shrimp become a delicacy for banded rudderfish.

      Banded rudderfish resemble and are often confused with pilot fish. Large specimens often have a raccoon stripe over the eye and a gold stripe on the side of the body. The banded rudderfish is different from its other family members based on their location and diet. These fish prefer to dwell offshore in shallow water and may follow larger animals. Adult banded rudderfish feed on shrimp and flies.

    Reputation and Significance

    • Fishing a large amberjack requires determination, strength and lots of patience. People with heart problems and women who are pregnant are encouraged to avoid fishing for amberjacks. The amberjack family can be found throughout the Atlantic Ocean, with noted concentrations around Florida and the Caribbean. As food, amberjacks are known for their firm, white meat with subtle flavor.