
Blacktip trevally
Caranx heberi
Overview
The blacktip trevally, also known as the blacktip kingfish or yellowtail kingfish, is a species of large marine fish classified in the jack family Carangidae. The blacktip trevally is distributed throughout the tropical to subtropical Indian and West Pacific Oceans, ranging from South Africa in the west to Fiji, Japan and northern Australia in the east. It inhabits coastal waters throughout its range, preferring moderately deep clear waters over rocky and coral reefs. The blacktip trevally is easily distinguished by its yellow fins and a dark upper caudal fin lobe which gives the species its common name, as well as a host of other anatomical features. The species is known to reach a maximum size of 1 m. It is a benthopelagic predator, commonly forming small shoals where it takes a variety of fishes, cephalopods and crustaceans as prey. Little is known of reproduction in the species, and spawning is assumed to take place in more tropical regions of its range, with juveniles known to inhabit bays and large estuaries. Blacktip trevally are often caught using hook and line and various nets in commercial fisheries although don't make up a large part of the market. They are also popular with anglers due to their fighting ability and decent table qualities.
Best Baits & Lures
Live Baits
- Prawns
Effective when fished live or as cut bait.
- Pilchards
Use whole or cut into smaller pieces.
- Squid
A highly attractive bait for trevally.
- Herring
Use as cut bait, great for scent trail.
- Small Live Fish
Mullet or herring are great options.
Artificial Lures
- Rapala X-Rap 10MinnowBuy
Twitch aggressively near structure.
- Halco Twisty 40gSpoonBuy
Retrieve fast to trigger strikes.
- Daiwa Bait Junkie Minnow 2.5Soft PlasticBuy
Rig on a jighead and hop near the bottom.
- Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow Deep Diver F1123-M11CrankbaitBuy
Troll near drop-offs.
- Shimano Coltsniper Fall Jig 40gJigBuy
Jig vertically from boat.
Techniques
Blacktip trevally often hunt in schools, so focus your efforts near reefs, wrecks, and rocky outcrops where they ambush prey.
As an Amazon Associate, WikiCatch earns from qualifying purchases.
Where to Find Blacktip trevally
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bait for Blacktip trevally?+
Popular baits for Blacktip trevally include Prawns, Pilchards, Squid, Herring, Small Live Fish. Tip: Blacktip trevally often hunt in schools, so focus your efforts near reefs, wrecks, and rocky outcrops where they ambush prey.
Where can I catch Blacktip trevally?+
Blacktip trevally can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa; Western Australia, Australia; Pamplemousses, Mauritius. WikiCatch lists 5 fishing spots where this species is found.
How big do Blacktip trevally get?+
Blacktip trevally (Caranx heberi) can reach up to 87.9999995 cm in length and 12.5 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.
Get WikiCatch on iPhone
360,000+ fishing spots, AI fish ID, weather & solunar — free.
Download on the App Store