![]() Many anglers prefer to use a fairly stout fly rod for this species, especially with streamers that give the impression of quickly moving bait.īraided line works best for casting, and higher test fluorocarbon may prevent the mackerel from constantly cutting the line. Mackerel feed on the run, so you’ll need to be prepared for a fight from the get-go. Gear & Riggingĭepending on the size of the Spanish mackerel, your gear can vary from a light to medium 7-foot rod to a heavier 8-foot rod with the action centered in the middle of the rod, not necessarily at the tip.Ī medium spinning reel or a conventional level-wind reel will work equally well. Once they find their potential meal, they surround their quarry and move in for the kill. ![]() They search and destroy, often sending out “scouts” to look for prey. They don’t sit around like flounder and wait for the bait to pass by. Keep in mind that these fish are hunters. They might be out on the open flats or hanging around near oyster bars with redfish or speckled trout.ĭuring the warmest weather, they can be caught close to shore. You’ll find these feisty fighters offshore in the spring and then all over the bays and inland waters come summer. ![]() Since Spanish mackerel travel in large schools, there will be quite the commotion on the water’s top. Pelicans might get into the fray as well. When & Whereįrom March to September, when you see those birds, especially small terns, diving into the water for bait, chances are, Spanish mackerel are driving the bait to the surface. While they aren’t necessarily prized for their eating quality, this slim-lined, colorful, and powerful species is a superior fighter and most certainly worth the effort.īefore you target this species, there are a few helpful suggestions to consider. Reel in line neatly cut near the leader and, you guessed it, another Spanish mackerel. Scan online fishing reports such as those produced by Fishin’ Franks in Southwest Florida.īlink twice and you’ll miss this speed demon of Florida waters. Check the fishing section in the local newspapers and magazines.Be sure to leave plenty of room for the other boats as a courtesy. Boats will often follow schools and congregate where the fish are being caught.Just about anyone, from marina personnel to anglers, will tell you where the Spanish mackerel can be found.They usually travel in large schools and move constantly in search of prey.As the water begins to warm above 70 degrees, they move nearshore where anglers can catch them from piers and the beach.Spanish mackerel begin moving from the deeper offshore waters to inshore waters in March.Sight fishing is one of the best ways to find these fish.If fly fishing, use colorful flies that mimic minnows.Use steel leader if the fish are cutting the line too often.Drift into the area so as not to spook the mackerel.Look for diving terns and pelicans or bait being driven to the surface.Plastics with jig heads-anything flashy or colorful that can be reeled in quickly.Live or dead shrimp threaded on the hook.Bobber, especially one that attracts upon intermittent retrieval.fluorocarbon leader steel leader if losing gear Light to medium spinning or bait casting tackle preferred.As the water warms, they will come closer to shore.Onshore in the surf and near piers, especially during the warmer weather.Nearshore around open water, including flats and oyster bars.Offshore in open waters around structure.Why they make great targets for a family fishing tripĮnjoy and don’t forget to download your free PDF catch card here! Spanish Mackerel Scomberomorous Maculatus.The gear (and specific type of leader) to use so you can bring more macks to the boat.How to retrieve your lure for maximum strikes.When and where to find them (plus telltale signs that they’re in the area).This time he’s teaching us all about how to catch Spanish mackerel. How To Catch Flounder (Plus PDF Cheat Sheet & Catch Card).How To Catch Black Drum (Plus PDF Cheat Sheet & Catch Card). ![]()
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