St. Simons Island Man Sets New Almaco Jack Record

James W. Thompson, 21, of St. Simons Island, poses for a photo with his record-setting almaco jack at DNR Coastal Regional Headquarters on Monday. Photo provided by DNR.

A St. Simons Island man is the new state record holder for almaco jack (Seriola rivoliana).

James W. Thompson, 21, landed a remarkable 27-lb., 8-oz. almaco jack while fishing offshore near Navy Tower R4 on Sunday, July 28.

This impressive catch surpasses the previous record of 23-lbs., 15.04-ozs, established in May 2024 by Jason H. Rich of McRae-Helena.

Thompson’s achievement marks the third time this year the state record for almaco jack has been broken, highlighting the exceptional fishing opportunities in Georgia’s waters. Thompson’s dedication and skill have earned him a distinguished place in the state’s record books.

“Mr. Thompson’s new record showcases Georgia’s coastal waters as an exciting and unique opportunity for anglers of all ages,” said Tyler Jones, coordinator of the Georgia Saltwater Game Fish Records Program. “We’ve had more than half a dozen new state saltwater records in 2024 alone, and that goes to show the health and diversity of Georgia’s waters, along with the importance of science-based fishery management to ensure their availability for future generations.”

Thompson’s record-breaking catch will be celebrated with a certificate signed by Governor Brian Kemp, Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Walter Rabon and Director Doug Haymans of DNR’s Coastal Resources Division (CRD). Thompson’s name will be featured in the next Georgia Hunting and Fishing Regulations Guide and online at CoastalGaDNR.org/SaltwaterRecords as long as his record stands.

CRD congratulates Thompson on his record-breaking catch and emphasizes the importance of sustainable fishing practices and the role of anglers in conserving marine resources. In particular, offshore anglers are reminded that descending devices are federally required when fishing for snapper-group species in federal waters offshore. These devices, which must be rigged and ready to use in federal waters, have been shown to reduce mortality in fish experiencing barotrauma.

Anglers in Georgia must have a valid recreational fishing license, a free Saltwater Information Permit (SIP), and adhere to size and possession limits for various species. Detailed state saltwater record program rules and regulations are available at CoastalGaDNR.org/SaltwaterRecords.

For more information on fishing regulations and records in Georgia, please visit CoastalGaDNR.org.

Almaco jack are found globally in tropical and subtropical seas. They are pelagic fish, meaning they utilize the entire water column and are frequently found inhabiting reefs and other structures underwater. They typically feed on small fishes, shrimp, and squid. They are known for their stamina and strength.