Fresh & salt
Mangrove Jack
Lutjanus argentimaculatus
- Peak season
- Summer (wet season)
- Length range
- 25–90 cm
- Weight range
- 0.5–12 kg
- Typical depth
- 0–30 m
Habitat
Mangrove creeks, river snags, and rocky reef structure in tropical waters. Juveniles in estuaries, adults on reefs.
Behavior
Explosive ambush striker that dives straight for snags when hooked. Wary feeder that hunts at night.
Best techniques
- Live bait near snags with locked drag
- Casting hard-body lures at structure
- Soft plastics in creek systems
