Spanish Mackerel

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

Spanish Mackerel can be found in coastal waters, including bays, inlets, and nearshore waters. They are commonly found in schools and are often found near surface-breaking fish, diving birds, and floating debris.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

Spanish mackerel are pelagic fish that roam nearshore and offshore waters. They are commonly found near structure-rich areas, such as jetties, piers, inlets, and around navigational markers. Spanish mackerel are also known to congregate around nearshore reefs and along sandy beaches.
Look for Spanish mackerel near areas with strong tidal flows and current breaks, as they often gather in these areas to ambush their prey. They are also attracted to areas with upwellings, where cold, nutrient-rich water rises from the deep. Pay attention to temperature breaks and areas of turbid water, as these can indicate the presence of Spanish mackerel.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, Spanish mackerel migrate northward along the Atlantic coast. They can be found in nearshore waters, particularly around structure-rich areas and near inlets. Look for diving birds, surface disturbances, and schools of baitfish as signs of Spanish mackerel feeding. Fast-retrieving lures, such as spoons, jigs, or shiny plugs, can be effective in enticing strikes during this time.

SUMMER

In the summer, Spanish mackerel can be encountered in both inshore and offshore waters. They may move farther offshore in search of cooler water or remain in nearshore areas where baitfish are abundant. Trolling with spoons or small diving plugs can be effective in covering a larger area and locating Spanish mackerel. When targeting them nearshore, casting shiny lures or live baitfish can yield success.

FALL

As fall arrives, Spanish mackerel continue their migration southward along the coast. They can be found in nearshore waters and around structure-rich areas. Pay attention to areas with strong tidal flows, as Spanish mackerel often gather in these areas to feed. Casting jigs, spoons, or trolling with diving plugs can be effective in targeting Spanish mackerel during the fall.

WINTER

During the winter months, Spanish mackerel may move to warmer waters or stay in deeper offshore areas. While they can still be caught, targeting them during this season may require venturing to offshore reefs or areas with strong currents. Trolling with deep-diving lures, using live bait, or vertical jigging can be effective techniques when targeting Spanish mackerel during the winter. Pay attention to favorable weather conditions and consult local fishing reports to maximize your chances of success.

Live bait, such as sardines, pilchards, or herring, can be very effective for catching Spanish mackerel, especially when fished near the surface or near schools of baitfish.
Cut bait, such as squid or mackerel, can also be used to catch Spanish mackerel. These baits release a strong scent trail in the water that can attract Spanish mackerel from a distance.

Casting and Retrieving

How: Cast and retrieve a variety of lures that imitate small baitfish or shiny objects. Spanish Mackerel are attracted to fast-moving lures, so use a quick and erratic retrieve to entice strikes. Target areas near structure, such as jetties, reefs, or drop-offs, where Mackerel like to hunt for prey.
Gear: Rods: Medium to medium-light spinning rods. Reels: Size 2000-4000 spinning reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 8-15lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Lures: Spoons, shiny metal jigs, small swimbaits, or topwater plugs.

Trolling

How: Trolling is an effective technique for covering larger areas and locating schools of Spanish Mackerel. Troll with small diving plugs, spoons, or feathered lures at a speed of around 4-6 knots. Vary the depth of your lures until you find the strike zone.
Gear: Rods: Medium to medium-light trolling rods. Reels: Size 3000-4000 spinning reels or size 20 conventional reels. Line: 10-20lb test monofilament or braided line. Lures: Diving plugs, spoons, feathered lures, or small skirted trolling lures.

Live Bait

How: Use live bait such as small pilchards, cigar minnows, or threadfin herring to entice Spanish Mackerel. Rig a live baitfish on a wire leader or use a small treble hook through the back or nose. Cast near structure or drift with the current and let the baitfish swim naturally.
Gear: Rods: Medium to medium-light spinning rods. Reels: Size 3000-4000 spinning reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 8-15lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon. Hooks: Size 4-6 live bait hooks or small treble hooks. Leaders: Wire leaders to prevent bite-offs from Mackerel's sharp teeth.

Fly Fishing

How: Fly fishing for Spanish Mackerel can be an exciting experience. Use baitfish patterns or flashy streamers that imitate small baitfish. Cast near structure, reefs, or along shorelines and strip the fly in short, quick bursts to trigger strikes.
Gear: Rods: 6-8 weight fly rods. Reels: Size 6-8 fly reels with a smooth drag system. Line: Intermediate or sinking fly lines matched to the rod weight. Leaders: 9-12ft fluorocarbon leaders with tippet sizes ranging from 8-15lb. Flies: Clouser Minnows, Deceivers, baitfish patterns, or flashy streamers.