Home / Species / Mangrove Jack

Lutjanus argentimaculatus

How to identify a Mangrove Jack

Mangrove Jack are found in coastal waters, reefs, estuaries, or open ocean depending on species. Use these features as a starting point and compare with a full identification guide before relying on any identification.

Mangrove Jack (Lutjanus argentimaculatus)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons contributors (CC BY-SA)
EnvironmentSaltwater
SeasonVaries by region and regulation

Habitat and range

Coastal waters, reefs, estuaries, or open ocean depending on species

Where to catch Mangrove Jack

Mangrove Jack by state

State season calendars that list Mangrove Jack — each shows the months it is in season and the official licence source:

Baits and lures

Cut bait · live bait · jigs · and trolling lures suited to the target species

Mangrove Jack trip plan
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Related species

Often caught in the same waters or confused with Mangrove Jack:

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Do not rely on a photo alone for legal or food-safety decisions. Location, season, life stage and local regulations matter. Confirm any identification that affects possession limits or consumption with the responsible wildlife agency.

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