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Interesting Facts About the Giant Trevally (GT)

Interesting facts about GTs

The wide-open expanses of the Indian Ocean allowed species here to grow abundant and fierce. None more so than the infamous giant trevally (GT). Known for their fighting spirit and sheer power, the GT is a sought-after catch, whether you are a new or seasoned fisherman. We explore some of the interesting facts about this infamous saltwater tropical fish.

At Alphonse Fishing Co™ in the Seychelles islands, we offer fly fishermen the chance to target these revered creatures at our remote fishing destinations of Alphonse, Astove, and Cosmoledo Atolls. With Cosmoledo being the GT capital of the world, you’re sure to land a big one!

GTs can be classified as apex predators as they hunt a variety of species, from lobsters and mantis shrimps to eels and smaller trevally species, in the deep waters around the islands as well as the flats and lagoons of the atolls. They are a powerful force to be reckoned with, and holding up one of these impressive specimens is well worth the battle.

A GT swiming in the ocean - interesting facts

Targeting GTs has become somewhat of an art form, one that the guides at Alphonse Fishing Co™ have slowly but surely been perfecting over the years. With the help and guidance of our team and specialized equipment, you’ll be equipped with the best and even learn how to tie the perfect braided loop for GTs. Now all you need to worry about is keeping those lines tight and your eye on the prize.

With their intimidating stare and fierce reputation, the lines between legend and facts about the gangsters of the flats have become slightly blurred.

 Take a look at these ten interesting facts about the giant trevally:

Giant trevally (Caranx ignobilis) is also known as giant kingfish, barrier trevally, lowly trevally, ulua (in Hawaii), or GT for short.

  • GTs have an average length of 85 cm – specimens of around 60 cm will be 3 – 4 years old, and those over 1m in length will be roughly 8 – 10 years old.
  • Giant trevally can reach top speeds of 60 km/h.
  • This species is a silvery-grey colour, with mature males (70 cm+) being dusky to jet-black.
  • When threatened or stressed, GTs lose their dark colouration and become more silvery-grey.
  • GTs are known to contain ciguatoxin as they feed on species like grouper and wrasse which contain ciguatoxins.
  • Specimens of over 1.7 m in length and weighing over 180 lbs have been documented.
  • The current IGFA All-Tackle Record for giant trevally stands at 160 lbs for a specimen caught in Kagoshima, Japan.
  • Evidence in Hawaii has shown that a GT can mate with bluefin trevally after an impressive 88 lb bluefin was captured.
  • GTs have been known to follow monk seals and sharks when hunting, feeding on ‘forgotten’ prey.
Angler with a GT - interesting facts

Are you ready to take on the king of the Flats? Get in touch with us to find more information about a fly fishing holiday here.

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