Happy Jacks

Afew jack crevalle were among the fish that cooperated a couple of weeks ago when I spent a day in Jacksonville fishing with Chris Holleman of Blue Cyclone Inland Fishing Adventures. I was glad. Jacks are hard hitting, fast and a lot of fun to catch.

Interestingly, jacks are among the most maligned fish in inland waters. I’ve often heard anglers grumbling when they hook up with jacks and even wanting to move away for them to search for the day’s targeted species.

I’ve watched anglers completely change their perspective upon getting a good look at a fish and realizing it is a huge jack. One minute enjoying the fast runs and brutal strength and the next minute irritated by the same qualities and time taken away from the pursuit of other species.

Fishing is meant to be fun, and preferences are personal, so folks have the right to like or dislike catching any species. I’ve just never understood how the fun factor can change so dramatically based on the shape of the fish.

I get a bit of disappointment if your hope for the day was to catch a trophy redfish, and you thought that was what you were fighting. It seems to go way past disappointed, though, and turn into a despise for the fish at the end of the line.

I’ve also always wondered when or why jack crevalle became perceived as “trash fish” in the eyes of so many anglers. Their shape, iridescent colors and fighting qualities are somewhat similar to permit, which are highly prized sport fish. 

I guess I don’t need to worry about other anglers’ preference. I know I like catching jacks and always welcome them to the party!