 Spanish
mackerel are probably the most colorful fish in the mackerel family. Having a
green back that fades into the bright silver sides that is covered with irregular
golden yellow spots. The front of the dorsal fin is black and the lateral line
makes a slight curve down to the end of the tail.
Where Spanish Mackerel are Found
Spanish mackerel are found inshore, nearshore and offshore, especially over
grass beds and reefs, and are absent from North Florida waters in the winter.
We catch many of our spanish mackerel out in front of the beaches in fall and
early winter and then again in spring to late summer.
Florida Record
Remarks
Spanish mackerel are schooling fish that migrate northward in spring and return
to southerly waters when the water drops below 70 degrees. Spanish mackerel spawn
offshore from Spring through Summer. They feed on small fish and squid.
Diamond jigs and small silver spoons with a thin wire leader for catching these
game fish. They have keen eye sight and the speed of a bullet. Don’t use
more than 10 lb test or you will turn the bite off faster than the fish can move.
Capt Bear's Comments
Spanish mackerel, we got them and they can be targeted from late Spring to
early Fall and they will eat anything you can afford to lose. They are lighting
fast and will take your rig before you can set the hook. They’re fun to
play with and a blast on the fly. Children enjoy them because they eat a lot and
all the time. |
