
Aprion viriscens
April 9, 2019
The green jobfish is a coastal predator reminiscent of the European sea bass or the dentex snapper. It is mostly solitary, especially for larger individuals of 3 kg and over, and sometimes in small groups, plus the fish being small plus there are individuals in the school.
The green jobfish is encountered all year round, at any time, but larger specimens approach the coasts rather in September-November. It is found in both clear and murky waters, near the reef but often on a mixed rock, coral and sand bottom, like the sea bass. It is not rare but local fishermen rarely catch it.
The green jobfish is hunted stalking or bomb diving, depending on whether it was spotted from the surface or during the descent. The arrival of the fangs forward green jobfish is always a great moment of emotion. Always let it come and wait for it to pivot before pulling the trigger.
Because it is always in motion and due to its slender shape it is not always easy to adjust well one’s shot but given the elongated shape of the fish it is necessary to shoot accurately to avoid tearing. This fish is quite vigorous but because of a weight generally not exceeding 7-8kg it does not create any particular problems.
The South Africans fish it by chumming with small chunks of fish that they take with them and throw before diving down to the reef.
The green jobfish is an excellent raw fish, as well as cooked. Best to avoid freezing. Because of its behavior tinged with aggressiveness and wariness, it is a cult catch of Indonesian waters. Spare fish under 1.5 kg.