Introduction
The Bigeye Trevally or Caranx sexfasciatus is a large predatory fish that belongs to the Jack family, Carangidae.
Conservation Status
Currently, the status of Bigeye Trevally is listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation efforts for this species are typically not targeted specifically towards them but instead are part of broader marine conservation programs.
Statistics
| Statistic | Range |
|---|---|
| Length | Average: 60 cm, Range: 40-120 cm |
| Weight | Average: 6 kg, Range: 1-18 kg |
| Average Lifespan | 12-15 years |
Distribution
Bigeye Trevally can be found in most tropical regions across the globe, specifically in the Indo-Pacific region from South Africa to Hawaii. They are known to migrate to warmer waters during the colder months.
Habitats
These fish prefer clear tropical to warm temperate waters, often in depths ranging from 0 to 60 meters. They can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but are often found in waters between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius.
When and Where to See
While Bigeye Trevally can be observed year-round, they are most commonly seen during the warmer months. They are usually most active during the late afternoon and early evening.
Best Fishing Locations
The top locations for fishing Bigeye Trevally include:
1. Great Barrier Reef, Australia
2. Hawaii, USA
3. Seychelles
4. Maldives
5. Madagascar
6. Mozambique
7. Fiji
8. Tahiti
9. Palau
10. Truk Lagoon, Micronesia
No specific tips are available on locating Bigeye Trevally. Anglers typically fish for them when targeting other larger predatory fish.
How to Catch
Bigeye Trevally are known to be attracted to both live bait and lures. Common fishing methods include trolling and casting with heavy tackle, but they can also be caught using fly fishing techniques. They are most commonly fished for during the late afternoon and early evening.
Identification Guide
Bigeye Trevally are bluish-green to silver in color, with characteristic large eyes and a distinctive forked tail. They can be differentiated from similar species by their unique body shape and size, as well as their coloration.
Culinary
Bigeye Trevally are highly valued in many cuisines due to their firm, flavorful flesh. They are often baked, grilled or used in soups. Their mild, slightly sweet taste pairs well with a variety of spices and sauces.
Additional Information
These fish are known to be opportunistic predators, feeding mainly on smaller fish and invertebrates. Natural threats include larger fish and marine mammals, while human-induced threats mainly include overfishing.
References and Further Reading
– Froese, R. and D. Pauly. Editors. (2021) FishBase. Caranx sexfasciatus. Link
– Australian Museum (2021). Bigeye Trevally, Caranx sexfasciatus. Link
– Florida Museum (2021). Bigeye Trevally. Link