Texas Gulf Coast Fishing

Jewfish

JEWFISH - Epinephelus itajara Family Serranidae, SEA BASSES AND GROUPER

Description: head and fins covered with small black spots; irregular dark vertical bars present on the sides of body; pectoral and caudal fin rounded; first dorsal fin shorter than and not separated from second dorsal; adults huge, up to 800 pounds; eyes small. Similar fish: other grouper.
Where found: OFFSHORE around oil platforms, in deep holes, reefs, and on ledges.
Size: largest of the groupers.
Remarks: spawns over summer months; lifespan of 30 to 50 years; feeds on crustaceans and fish.