WikiCatch
California yellowtail amberjack

California yellowtail amberjack

Seriola dorsalis

Family
Carangidae
Max Length
250 cm
Max Weight
52 kg
IUCN Status
LC
Water Type
saltwater, mixed
Fishing Spots
13

Overview

Seriola dorsalis, the California yellowtail, is a species of ray-finned fish of the family Carangidae. This species is also known by several alternate names, such as yellowtail jack, amberjack, forktail, mossback, white salmon and yellowtail tunis or tuna or by its Spanish name jurel. Although previously thought to belong to S. lalandi, recent genetic analysis distinguished California yellowtail as a distinct species from the yellowtail amberjack. The California yellowtail is differentiated from yellowtail amberjack as they differ in range. The yellowtail amberjack is found farther south in the Pacific Ocean.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Live Sardines

    Excellent choice, readily available, hook behind dorsal fin.

  • Live Anchovies

    Another great option, use a small hook.

  • Live Mackerel

    Hardier bait, good for trolling or drifting.

  • Live Squid

    Very effective, especially around structure.

  • Pacific Saury (live or dead)

    Can be trolled or fished near the bottom

Artificial Lures

  • Daiwa Salt Pro Minnow 130Minnow

    Great for casting and retrieving quickly.

    Buy
  • Tady 45 Surface IronSurface Iron

    Classic yellowtail lure, retrieve quickly.

    Buy
  • Shimano Butterfly Flat-Fall Jig 160gJig

    Effective jigging deep water, glows well.

    Buy
  • Nomad Design Madmacs 200Casting Jig

    Long casting, great action for surface feeders.

    Buy
  • Yo-Zuri Hydro Minnow LCMinnow

    Versatile lure for casting or trolling.

    Buy

Techniques

Use a fluorocarbon leader to reduce visibility in clear water, and match your hook size to the size of your bait.

As an Amazon Associate, WikiCatch earns from qualifying purchases.

Where to Find California yellowtail amberjack

California, United States2 spotsSonora, Mexico2 spotsJalisco, Mexico1 spots
📍 Find spots near me🗺️ Explore on the full map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for California yellowtail amberjack?+

Popular baits for California yellowtail amberjack include Live Sardines, Live Anchovies, Live Mackerel, Live Squid, Pacific Saury (live or dead). Tip: Use a fluorocarbon leader to reduce visibility in clear water, and match your hook size to the size of your bait.

Where can I catch California yellowtail amberjack?+

California yellowtail amberjack can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include California, United States; Sonora, Mexico; Jalisco, Mexico. WikiCatch lists 13 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do California yellowtail amberjack get?+

California yellowtail amberjack (Seriola dorsalis) can reach up to 250 cm in length and 52 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