
Jack Crevalle: The Ultimate Guide to Catching and Understanding This Powerful Fish
SW FLORIDA FISHING: Sportfishing Vacations in the Ten Thousand Islands
Introduction to Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle (Caranx hippos) is one of the most exciting and hard-fighting fish found in coastal and offshore waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Known for their aggressive nature and brute strength, Jack Crevalle provide anglers with thrilling battles on the water. While often overlooked as a table fish, their sheer tenacity and accessibility make them a favorite among sport fishermen.
Let’s explore various aspects of the Jack Crevalle Fish, including its lifecycle and ideal fishing locations in the entire Paradise Coast, Florida.
The History of Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle have been swimming the world’s oceans for millions of years, evolving into the streamlined powerhouses they are today. Indigenous tribes and early settlers along the coasts of North and South America have long encountered these fish, using rudimentary fishing techniques to land them for food. Despite their strong taste and firm flesh, they were historically valued in some cultures as a food source. Today, they are primarily sought after for sport fishing rather than commercial consumption.
How to Catch Jack Crevalle
Catching Jack Crevalle is not for the faint of heart. They are ferocious fighters and require sturdy tackle. Medium to heavy-action rods with strong reels are recommended. A 4000-6000 size spinning reel spooled with 20-30 lb braided line is ideal. Jack Crevalle are not picky eaters and will attack topwater plugs, spoons, swimbaits, and live bait such as mullet, pilchards, pinfish, and shrimp. Fast retrieval with topwater lures can trigger explosive strikes, and casting to bait schools or chumming the water can attract jacks in large numbers. They are most active in warm waters, making spring through early fall the best times to target them.
Fishing for Jack Crevalle in the Florida Everglades & Ten Thousand Islands
Southwest Florida, particularly the Florida Everglades and Ten Thousand Islands, is a prime habitat for Jack Crevalle. These waters offer a mix of estuaries, mangrove shorelines, and open flats where schools of jacks roam in search of food. Chokoloskee, Marco Island, and Everglades City are some of the best areas to find Jack Crevalle. Many local charters specialize in Jack Crevalle fishing, offering guided excursions to ensure an action-packed day on the water. During cooler months, they move into deeper waters, while in warmer months, they are often found aggressively feeding near the surface.

Are Jack Crevalle Good to Eat?
The debate over whether Jack Crevalle is good to eat has been ongoing for years. While they are not considered a prime food fish due to their strong, dark meat, they can be prepared in ways that make them more palatable. Bleeding them immediately helps remove some of the strong, fishy taste. Smoking, grilling, or making fish cakes can improve the flavor. Younger, smaller Jacks tend to have better texture and taste than larger, older ones.
Are Jack Crevalle Like Pompano?
Jack Crevalle and Pompano belong to the same family, Carangidae, but differ in several key ways. Jacks grow much larger and fight harder than Pompano. Pompano are highly prized for their mild, delicious flesh, whereas Jacks are often considered too strong-tasting. While both respond well to jigs and live bait, Pompano are usually found in sandy surf zones, while Jacks prefer a mix of deeper and shallower habitats.
Average Lifespan and Record Jack Crevalle
Jack Crevalle can live up to 10-15 years. The all-tackle world record for Jack Crevalle is a massive 66 lbs 2 oz, caught off Angola in 2010. Most Jack Crevalle caught by anglers range from 5 to 30 lbs, with anything over 25 lbs considered a trophy fish.
Where to Stay When Fishing for Jack Crevalle in Southwest Florida
Southwest Florida offers numerous lodging options for anglers targeting Jack Crevalle. Here are some top-rated places to stay:
JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, 400 S Collier Blvd, Marco Island, FL 34145. A luxurious beachfront resort with excellent amenities and easy access to fishing charters.
Everglades Rod & Gun Club, 200 Riverside Dr, Everglades City, FL 34139. A historic fishing lodge offering rustic charm and great access to the Ten Thousand Islands.
Naples Grande Beach Resort, 475 Seagate Dr, Naples, FL 34103. A high-end resort perfect for relaxing after a long day of fishing.
Chokoloskee Island Park and Marina, 1150 Hamilton Ln, Chokoloskee, FL 34138. A great spot for anglers looking for comfortable accommodations with direct water access.
Sanibel Island Beach Resort, 1231 Middle Gulf Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957. A laid-back island retreat known for its beautiful beaches and nearby fishing hotspots.
Jack Crevalle are one of the most exciting fish to catch due to their sheer power and aggressive strikes. Whether you’re targeting them in the Everglades, along the Gulf Coast, or offshore in deeper waters, they provide a thrilling challenge for any angler. While not commonly kept for food, they remain a staple of sport fishing, ensuring unforgettable battles and memories on the water. For those planning a fishing trip in Southwest Florida, plenty of accommodations and guide services are available to make the experience even more enjoyable. So grab your gear, hit the water, and prepare for an adrenaline-pumping fight with the mighty Jack Crevalle!
Additional Lodging Options
For those looking for a truly immersive experience, fishing lodges like Chokoloskee Island Park or boutique resorts offering exclusive fishing tours are perfect for anglers who want a hands-on experience. These lodgings provide everything from expert fishing guides to freshly prepared meals, giving you the chance to unwind and focus entirely on your fishing adventure. Browse current SW FL Vacation Rental Homes and Lodging Specials below.
SW FLORIDA FISHING CAPTAINS
Skinny Dipn Charters - Fishing & Eco Tours, Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-207-1945
Marco Island Fishing and Sightseeing Tour from an experienced Captain and Guide. Growing up on the local waters of Marco Island, Captain Brandon's excitement for fishing began at a very young age. He is highly knowledgeable of all the different fish species and waterways. Brandon is a very outgoing, personable, skilled, and patient. He takes pride in sharing his passion for fishing and helping his clients catch their dream fish!
Skinny Dipping Charters & Eco Tours - Marco Island

Sunshine Tours and Fishing Charters, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island, FL | 239-642-5415
Sunshine Tours. Fish the 10,000 islands, the best in Off Shore, Back Water, and Near Coastal Fishing Charters. We know where the fish are. Also offering Marco Island Shelling Trips, and Sightseeing aboard one of our four fishing boats. Since 1984, Sunshine Tours has provided unsurpassed fishing charters, and on-the-water experiences for locals and visitors alike. Shared and private charters available. Contact us to book your Marco Island fishing charter.
Sunshine Tours & Charters - Marco Island, FL
Everglades City Fishing Charters, currently leaving from Everglades Bait and Tackle, Everglades City, FL | 239-253-9926
Experience the wonder of the 10,000 islands of SWFL. Fish the protected bays and rivers of the Islands and Everglades National Park. Fish among the mysteries of wrecks, hard bottom reefs, and offshore towers. Seek some of the most exciting game fish that call the Florida Everglades Home.
Everglades City Fishing Charters - Everglades City, FL
SW FLORIDA TEN THOUSAND ISLANDS ECOTOURS
Avi's Water Sports Jet Ski Adventure Tours, Caxambas Park, 909 Collier Ct., Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-777-9873
Avi's is a family-owned business that offers some of the most exciting dolphin jet ski tours and jet ski rental adventures on Marco Island. You are invited to take an exciting journey with Avi "The Dolphin Whisperer" and take home a complimentary flash drive of photos from your adventure. Bring the family and make lasting memories. Contact us to book your dolphin Jet Ski tour.
Avi's Water Sports & Jet Ski Adventure Tours - Marco Island, FL
Tropical Tiki Tours, 220 Goodland Dr., Goodland, FL | 941-208-1200
Discover your private paradise on our new 26' "tiki-style" catamaran for a fun and relaxing cruise around Marco Island. Tropical Tiki Tours is offering daily eco-tours, sunset cruises, and private trips from 2-6 hours. Our USCG-inspected vessel is certified for up to 18 passengers so there is always room for all your family and friends for, Private Trips, Eco Tours, Corporate Events, Birthdays, Bachelorettes, Weddings, and Sunset Cruises.
Tropical Tiki Tours - Goodland, FL

Sunshine Tours and Charters, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL | 239-642-5415
Sunshine Tours offers the best in Offshore, Back Country and Near Coastal Fishing, Island Shelling and Sightseeing aboard one of our four fishing boats. Since 1984, Sunshine Tours has provided unsurpassed on-the-water experiences for locals and visitors alike. Shared and private charters available.
Visit Sunshine Tours Marco Island

Go Cats On The Water 2200 Tamiami Trail E, Collier Seminole State Park, Naples, FL | 239-748-4099
Marco and Naples Most Exciting Boat Tour. Explore the backwater and mangroves for an unforgettable adventure in Southwest Florida. Everglades Backwater Sightseeing Eco-Tours in our safe, and easy to drive boats. Choose a 75 minute or a 2.5 hour tour. Our custom Go-Cat boats are fun for all ages and can easily be operated by both younger adults and seniors. Kayak, and Canoe rentals now available.
GoCatsOnTheWater.com - Naples, FL

Marco Island Princess / Sunshine Tours, Rose Marina, 951 Bald Eagle Dr., Marco Island FL 34145 | 239-642-5415
The Marco Island Princess is a 90' luxury yacht offering daily Sightseeing, Lunch and Sunset Dinner Cruises. All of our delicious meals are prepared fresh on board for your enjoyment. Our professional and friendly crew will attend to your every need. Two full service cash bars serving up all of your favorite drinks! Also available for Weddings and Private Charters. Marco Island's most unique dining experience!
Visit The Marco Island Princess - Marco Island, FL
Naples Bicycle Tours, Naples, FL 34113 | 239-580-7960
Naples Bicycle Tours provides a unique opportunity for visitors and residents to experience Marco Island, the Natural Florida Everglades, and Historic Old Naples up close and personal, on a bicycle. All bike tours include everything needed for an amazing bicycling adventure: custom-fit cycle, helmet, drinks, snacks, and a certified FL naturalist guide.
Naples Bicycle Tours - Naples, FL
Skinny Dipn Charters - Fishing & Eco Tours, Marco Island, FL 34145 | 239-207-1945
Marco Island Fishing and Sightseeing Tour from an experienced Captain and Guide. Growing up on the local waters of Marco Island, Captain Brandon's excitement for fishing began at a very young age. He is highly knowledgeable of all the different fish species and waterways. Brandon is a very outgoing, personable, skilled, and patient. He takes pride in sharing his passion for fishing and helping his clients catch their dream fish!
Skinny Dipn Charters & Eco Tours - Marco Island
SHOP SNOOK FISHING
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