Mangrove jack are most encountered throughout estuaries, bays and inshore reefs/headlands, but larger models will take up residence on deeper reefs up to approximately 100m. They are a very structure orientated species that will shelter and ambush their prey from cover. Areas like fallen trees, rock bars/walls, pylons, pontoons, moorings, bommies, caves, reefs and headlands will all hold fish at times.

Jacks are enthusiastic lure takers, responding well to many types of presentations. As a starting point minnow profiled hard bodies in the 70-120mm range will get hit. Surface lures, vibes and swimbaits will also produce results when cast into jack country. The key to success is getting the lures as close to the structure as possible.

Soft plastics are a very versatile mangrove jack option. They can be fished a multitude of different ways and at almost any depth. Baitfish and prawn profiled plastics in natural colours like whites, silvers and greys are consistent producers. Slow rolling as well as erratic jerking retrieves will often entice a reaction bite. Soft plastics can also be rigged on a weedless jig head allowing you to fish tighter into structure where the Jacks live without getting snagged

Mangrove Jacks will happily take both live and dead baits. Live mullet, herring, garfish, prawns and yellowtail scad are all top of the menu. Oily flesh baits like pilchards, tuna, mullet and whitebait are all good dead bait options. Baits fished during the night will often yield better results as Jacks will roam close to structure. Hooks 2/0-4/0 are a good size depending on the size of the bait being used. Rigs can be both weighted and unweighted.