Species profile
Yellowtail
Seriola lalandi
Identify Yellowtail (Seriola lalandi) from a photo: try it free in your browser, or get unlimited IDs, no sign-up, with the CatchRules app. Plus current fishing rules across 5 jurisdictions.
At a glance
Yellowtail (Seriola lalandi) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species regulated in 7 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
Bag limits are uniform at 10 per angler across the 3 regulating jurisdictions.
Across 5 jurisdictions with stated minimum sizes, the average minimum is 14.9 in (≈ 1 ft 3 in).
Confirmed by 6 research-grade iNaturalist observations across the species' range.
Notable details
- One of the largest amberjacks, reaching up to 200 cm and over 50 kg.
- Found in temperate Pacific and Indian Ocean waters with a near-circumglobal distribution.
- Marketed as 'yellowtail kingfish' in Australia and New Zealand, where it commands premium prices.
- Farmed in Japan under the name 'hiramasa' and prized in high-end sashimi cuisine.
- Powerful and migratory, it delivers explosive runs that demand heavy tackle and quick reflexes.
Where Yellowtail are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Yellowtail
Background
The southern yellowtail amberjack, yellowtail kingfish or great amberjack, Seriola lalandi, is a large fish found in the Southern Ocean. Although previously thought to be found in all oceans and seas, recent genetic analysis restricts S. lalandi proper to the Southern Hemisphere waters.
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Yellowtail article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other bony fish on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is Yellowtail?
Yellowtail (Seriola lalandi) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species regulated in 7 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
What is the scientific name for Yellowtail?
Yellowtail is Seriola lalandi.
Is Yellowtail regulated for fishing?
Yes — Yellowtail has fishing regulations in 5 U.S. states and/or Canadian provinces tracked by CatchRules. See the "Jurisdictions with rules" section above for the binding-source links.
How can I identify Yellowtail?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules app for iPhone or Android — on-device identification recognizes Yellowtail along with ~1,500 other species. No sign-up, unlimited use.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.