Can you catch amberjack in Islamorada?
Yes, on the wrecks and deeper reef: FWC’s state record, 142 pounds, was caught near Islamorada. Shake N Bait names amberjack among its targets, and A Fishing Guru’s month guide lists them in March and August. The limit is 1 per person at 28 in FL, and they are closed in April.
The fish
FWC puts greater amberjack at up to 60 inches and 176 pounds, commonly around 40 inches and under 40 pounds, around rocky reefs, debris and wrecks in 60 to 240 feet; NOAA says they live up to 17 years and spawn mainly from March to June on reefs and wrecks. FWC says they are not shy or picky and will take almost any lively baitfish. NOAA calls the flavour sweet and mild.
In Islamorada
The Florida state record, 142 pounds, was caught near Islamorada. Shake N Bait lists amberjack with mahi, sailfish, tuna and kingfish; A Fishing Guru’s month guide mentions amberjack in March and August, and Robbie’s lists them among its summer offshore fish.
Can you keep amberjack?
Every limit is on what fish you can keep.
| Rule | FWC, Keys state waters |
|---|---|
| Minimum size | 28 in FL |
| Bag limit | 1 per person |
| Season | Closed in April (Atlantic rules) |
| Source | FWC: Greater amberjack |
Which trip to book
A wreck trip or an offshore day that stops on the wrecks: six or eight hours, $1,200–$1,700 to $950–$2,000 per boat in October 2026.
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Shake N Bait
4.7 Google · 26 reviews · read 4 October 2026
Amberjack on its list of targets; half, three-quarter and full days for up to six.
Departs: Whale Harbor Marina
Check availability
Google · 26 reviews · read 4 October 2026 Read for this page on 6 October 2026: FWC: greater amberjack profile (state record) ; NOAA Fisheries: greater amberjack .
Check it at the source
- FWC — Recreational saltwater fishing regulations Current state size limits, bag limits and seasons, species by species. Link checked 6 September 2026
- South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Federal management for snapper, grouper and reef species on the Atlantic side. Link checked 6 September 2026
Amberjack: questions
What is the Florida record amberjack?
FWC lists a 142-pound greater amberjack, caught near Islamorada, as the Florida state record.
When is amberjack closed in Florida?
Greater amberjack is closed in April under the Atlantic rules that apply in the Keys. The limit is one per person, at least 28 inches to the fork.
Next step
Looking for fishing trips in Islamorada?
Islamorada Charters Fishing is an independent guide — no boats, no bookings, nothing to sell. It exists so you can ask better questions before you hand an operator a deposit.
Islamorada Charters Fishing takes no bookings and earns nothing from a click. You book with the operator directly.