Jack Crevalle
The hardest-fighting fish per pound in Cabo waters. Jack Crevalle are powerful, stubborn brawlers that punch far above their weight class.
Overview
Jack Crevalle (Caranx hippos) are the brawlers of Los Cabos nearshore waters. These powerful, aggressive fish are known for their stubborn, drag-scorching fights that can last 30 minutes or more. Pound for pound, they're widely considered one of the hardest-fighting fish in the ocean; a 15-pound Jack will fight like a 50-pound fish.
In Los Cabos, Jack Crevalle are present year-round and commonly encountered in the surf zone, around rocky points, and near structure. They travel in aggressive schools and will hit anything that moves through their territory. They're not prized for the table, but their sportfishing value is immense.
Physical Characteristics
Jack Crevalle have a deep, compressed body with a blunt head and a distinctive dark spot on the gill cover. They're brassy green to silver with yellowish fins. Their tail is deeply forked and incredibly powerful.
They're closely related to amberjack and pompano. The name "Crevalle" (sometimes spelled "crevalle") comes from the Portuguese "cavala" meaning mackerel.
Best Seasons
Jack Crevalle are present year-round in Los Cabos. They're most active in spring and summer when water temperatures are warm, but they can be caught in any month. They're often found in large schools that push baitfish against the beach, creating spectacular surface-feeding frenzies that are visible from shore. The surf zone along Palmilla Beach and the rocky points near Santa Maria are prime territory.
Hot Spots
Palmilla Beach
5 mi E. The surf zone here regularly holds schools of Jack Crevalle pushing bait.
Santa Maria / Chileno
4-8 mi E. Rocky points that attract Jacks looking for ambush positions.
Los Arcos
1-3 mi E. Structure around the famous arch holds Jacks year-round.
San Jose Estuary
20 mi E. Excellent for Jacks on the outgoing tide.
Best Techniques
Tip
Test Your Strength Against a Jack
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