Caranx ignobilis
The giant trevally, universally known as the GT, is the apex predator of tropical Indo-Pacific flats and reefs, and hooking one on a fly rod is among the most adrenaline-charged experiences in all of fly fishing. GTs are massively built fish with broad, powerful bodies, steep head profiles, and oversized forked tails that generate enormous thrust. They are aggressive, territorial hunters that will charge across a flat at full speed to engulf a popper or streamer in an explosion of white water. Found from the east coast of Africa through the Indian Ocean to Hawaii and beyond, GTs are the marquee species at legendary remote destinations like Christmas Island, the Seychelles, and the atolls of French Polynesia. Fly fishing for GTs demands heavy tackle, accurate casting, and the physical stamina to survive brutal, reel-testing fights. The experience of sight-casting to a GT cruising a coral flat and watching it accelerate toward the fly is an incomparable rush.
Order
Carangiformes
Family
Carangidae
Genus
Caranx
Species
C. ignobilis
Coral flats, reef edges, channels, lagoons, and offshore structures throughout the tropical Indo-Pacific; moves onto shallow flats to hunt during tidal shifts
Native Range: Indo-Pacific region from East Africa and the Red Sea through the Indian Ocean to Hawaii, Australia, and Japan
Introduced Range: No introductions; natural distribution throughout the tropical and subtropical Indo-Pacific
Fish, crabs, lobsters, octopus, squid, and virtually any available prey; GTs are apex predators that have been documented hunting birds, turtles, and even small sharks
GTs spawn in large aggregations around the new and full moon during summer months, typically July through October in most of their range. Spawning occurs in deep channels and offshore reef edges. Larvae are pelagic and settle into shallow coastal nursery areas as juveniles.
Spawning Months
Spawning Temperature: 78-86°F (water temperature)
The Giant Trevally (GT) is currently classified as Least Concern (IUCN); populations remain healthy in remote atolls but face localized pressure from commercial and recreational fishing near populated areas. Responsible catch-and-release practices help protect populations for future generations of anglers.
GTs respond explosively to large poppers stripped aggressively across the surface. When casting to a cruising GT on a flat, place the fly 10-15 feet ahead and strip it fast to trigger an instinctive predatory response. The strip-strike must be forceful to penetrate the GT's tough mouth, and the initial run will test your drag system to its limits.
A 12-weight rod minimum is required, with 14-weight preferred for trophy fish. Use a reel with at least 300 yards of 50 lb backing and a bombproof drag. Wire or heavy fluorocarbon bite tippet of 80-100 lb is essential.
Average Size
24-40 inches, 15-40 lbs
World Record
160 lbs (Tokara Islands, Japan, 2006)
