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The African pompano is the largest and the most widespread species of the genus Alectis. It can be distinguished from other members of the genus by the lower number of gill rakers on the first branchial arch (18-22 as opposed to 30-35 in A. inducus of the Indio-Pacific and even more in A. alexandrinus of Mediterranean and West African waters). It is characterized by 4-6 elongated, thread-like rays in the front part of the second dorsal and anal fins. In juveniles the first two of these rays may be four times as long as the fish. Normally, the rays tend to disappear or erode away as the fish grows. In both juveniles and adults of A. ciliaris the body is strongly compressed. The lateral line arches smoothly but steeply above the pectoral fins. Larger specimens are light bluish green above and silvery over most of the remainder of the body. They may have dark blotches on the operculum on the dorsal side of the caudal peduncle, and on the anterior portion of the second dorsal and anal fins. It is a strong fighter and an excellent light tackle game fish. It will take small live or dead baits, as well as lures, jigs and feathers. It is usually caught incidentally while trolling for other species. The name African pompano is misleading, since the fish is actually a member of the jack family.
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Scientific Name:
Alectis ciliaris
Family Name:
Carangidae Family
Also Known As:
Cuban jack, Atlantic threadfin, threadfin, pennantfish, cobblerfish
Favorite Bait:
Sand bugs, jigs, plugs, flies
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