jewfish
Species Facts

Science Name: Epinephelus itajara
Other Names: goliath grouper, spotted jewfish, southern jewfish, Florida jewfish
World Record: 680 lbs. Florida
Environment: inshore, coastal, reef
Techniques: bottom fishing, heavy tackle, drift fishing
Description

head and fins covered with small black spots; irregular dark and vertical bars present on the sides of body; pectoral and caudal fins rounded; first dorsal fin shorter than and not separated from second dorsal; adults huge, up to 800 pounds; eyes small.

Habitat
Jewfish are found nearshore often around docks, in deep holes, and on ledges; young often occur in estuaries, especially around oyster bars.

Feeding habits
Jewfish are extremely sluggish predators. They will feed on crustaceans, lobster, stingrays, turtles and fish.

Note
Jewfish are protected from harvest in Florida waters.

Tips for Fishing

Salmon, beachworm (handfull), tailor, mullet, yellowtail, luderick, salmon, garfish, squid, fresh squid heads, prawn, octopus, mackerel, pike, whiting, bonito, bass yabbie, strip baits. Small livebaits such as mullet, tailor, yellowtail, slimy mackerel and pike. Lures include the Bomber Long A.