Mangrove Jack

MANGROVE JACK a.k.a. Dog Bream, Red Bream

Mangrove Jack are extreme adversaries capable of lightning-fast strikes and strong and violent runs for cover, providing sport fishermen with the ultimate fishing challenge. Their large and razor-sharp canine teeth and spines and powerful and aggressive fighting style leave most fishermen in the dust, so top class tackle, strong line and hair trigger reactions are a must when hunting down this fish.

Physical Description: Mangrove Jack have a similar body shape to Bream and strong, dog-like teeth. Young jacks are reddish-brown or copper coloured (becoming paler in reef waters), and often have a pearly mark in the centre of each scale.

Size: Mangrove Jack can grow to 10 kg but are most commonly caught between 1 and 3 kg.

Habitat: Mangrove Jack are present in both coastal estuarine and reef systems. Younger fish occupy estuaries and rivers to the extent of tidal influences, moving seaward when they reach about 3 kg in weight. Lower tidal estuaries are a great place to fish as Mangrove Jack take advantage of the available cover and food supply offered by mangrove systems. Indeed, cover is an essential part of Mangrove Jack territory so look for snags, submerged vegetation, roots, rocks, logs, rock walls, bridge pylons and jetties. Current is also important and can give an indication of a Jack's presence. If the tide is flushing in or out schools of bait fish, Mangrove Jacks' will, most probably, be in the area.

Hint! The best time to catch a Mangrove Jack is during summer at day or night, at the bottom of a tide or the start of a rising tide.

How to Catch:
Bait - Live bait is essential when fishing for Mangrove Jack and can include live mullet or prawns. You can try to use dead bait and your best options here are Whiting, crab and prawns.
Rod and Reel - Boat or baitcaster rods are your best choice of gear for M.J. fishing. Make sure your rod is short with a fine tip and heavy butt section for maximum control over the tough Jack.
Line and Tackle - Line should be between 6-15 kg and sinker should be as light as possible or absent. A heavy trace is essential insurance against Jack cut-offs. Best hooks to use are 2/0 to 4/0 shortshank. Lures such as minnows, swimming plugs and lures with inbuilt rattlers are best and should be trolled or cast near snags.

Hint! It is important to strike on the first bite otherwise they will bolt for the snags.

Hot Spots: Mangrove Jack are mainly found in estuarine systems in Queensland, north-west Western Australia and the Top End.