The Mackerel species is one of the most sought after species in South Florida. In this article we leave you 3 species that are among the most sought after so that you can recognize them if on any occasion you find yourself battling with one of them.
Macarela Española / Sierra Pintada / Sierra Común
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| Tomado de: Spanish Mackerel | FWC (myfwc.com) |
This fish is essentially characterized by its irregular golden yellow spots on its sides. In the first dorsal fin you can see a black spot on the front followed by a second, more pointed dorsal fin. The back is bluish green, fading to silver gray on the belly. The lateral line slopes gradually from the gill area to the tail.
The young of the Royal Macarela or Serrucho species also have this type of spots that disappear when they are adults.
Additional information
The Spanish Mackerel is an aggressive predator that will attack a wide variety of natural and artificial baits, so they can be very easy to catch. Many anglers identify the location of this species by trolling or watching birds diving into schools of fish, which often indicates that mackerel are forcing bait to the surface. Fishing techniques include trolling or casting with small shiny spoons, jigs or jigs. Light spinning or baitcasting tackle with 10- to 15-pound monofilament line are suitable; However, a 30- to 60-pound steel leader is required because of its sharp teeth.
Macarela Cero / Sierra Listada
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| Tomado de: Cero Mackerel | FWC (myfwc.com) |
This fish is characterized by having silvery yellow spots on its sides, some in the form of broken lines. The yellowish stripe on the side extends from the pectoral fin to the tail. The back is bluish green, fading to silver sides and belly. It has a more pronounced bluish-black spot on the front of the first dorsal fin. The lateral line slopes gently from behind the gill cover to the tail.
Macarela Real / Serrucho
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| Tomado de: King Mackerel | FWC (myfwc.com) |
This fish is characterized by its bluish-green back, fading to silvery sides and belly (no spots). The front part of the first dorsal fin lacks a dark spot. The lateral line drops sharply below the second dorsal fin. Younger specimens may have yellowish spots, similar to those of the Spanish Mackerel.
Additional information
Serruchos feed on small fish and squid and take both natural and artificial baits. Live baits include porgies, herring, Spanish sardines, ballyhoo and mullet. Lures should be flashy sub-surface lures or large fish-like plugs. Use 20-pound line and tackle, or heavier for larger saws, with a wire or mono leader.
We also leave you a video where you can see the differences between these species. Let them enjoy FISHING and may at some point battle with one of these species.
Always remember to check the FWC regulations in your area via their website or Fish |Hunt app.
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