It is found around wrecks and reefs where smaller fish are abundant, but it may also be found far out at sea. The yellowtail is a coastal, schooling fish that sometimes enters estuaries. It has been reported to occur occasionally in very large schools in the Gulf of California. It feeds predominantly in the morning and late afternoon on small fishes, invertebrates, and pelagic crabs. Small to medium size fish generally undertake seasonal migrations.
Larger individuals are more solitary and less migratory.
The yellowtail is a fast swimmer. The strike is vicious and is followed by a long, hard run and sometimes two or three shorter runs before the fish is boated. June through November This pelagic and migratory species occurs in tropical and warm temperate oceanic waters. It is less abundant in the eastern portions of both oceans. They are known to feed on squid and pelagic fishes, including black-fin tuna and frigate mackerel.