Ocean Fishing

Spanish Mackerel Fishing in North Carolina

By Dylan Smith 19 January, 2023 6 mins read

The early spring run of Spanish mackerel is a great opportunity to catch these delicious, silvery fish. The area around "High Rock" in Kure Beach is a mile or two offshore and a small boat is the perfect vehicle for catching the early Spanish run. The modern buildings are reminiscent of Pueblo Indian homes as the light shines through the tinted windows.

Spanish mackerel can also be caught by anglers year-round

You'll be able to catch this tasty fish in the fall. Spanish mackerel spawn on the coast of shallow waters in the Gulf of Mexico. The females are capable of releasing large quantities of eggs in small batches. By age two, they can have as many as 500,000 to 1.5 million eggs. They are found along the coast of North Carolina, and in other coastal states.

The best place to catch this tasty fish, however, is close shore. They will also follow baitfish in sounds, inlets, and along coastal rivers. These fish are generally attracted to small lures and live bait. However, they will also take larger lures. Anglers can catch Spanish mackerel year-round in North Carolina by catching them while fishing off the ocean pier.

Early mornings are perfect for catching Spanish mackerel near the "High Rock." A small boat can travel about a mile off the coast as the sun rises. As new condos and hotels are built, the seaside scene in Carolina and Kure changes like mushrooms. Tinted windows reflect the sunlight. Spanish mackerel were the guests of honor.

Spanish mackerel will be returning to North Carolina's coast as bonito season ends. As the seawater warms, they will be moving inshore. It's almost impossible to miss these fish, so it's worth looking for them. Also in the inshore realm, you'll find the coveted Spotted Seatrout. They are ideal prey for beginners and live in school-like structures.

Useful lures

It is important to choose the right lures when you are looking for Spanish mackerel baits. These fish like fast moving targets, so they will often strike an artificial lure when it is being retrieved at a high speed. To entice the Spanish to bite the lure, slow it down. When it is time to reel your prize in, you should keep moving at high speed.

Spanish mackerel fishing is best when you use baits that mimic the movements of the fish. There are many baits that will catch the fish, but the ones that mimic the movement of the fish are the best. These baits will catch many species. Spanish mackerel are fond of eating a variety if lures.

Spanish mackerel weigh in at around a pound, so you might want to use a jig and a spoon. These fish prefer to eat bottom and top lures so you will want to pick a lure that is easily retrievable. They are delicious and easy to clean. You can even have them finely filled to eat.

Spanish mackerel are attracted to certain baits. A variety of shapes and colors are available. The best bait is one that is natural in color. This is why white is so popular. Although a white or spotty bucktail is an excellent choice, it's important to not stick with the same color. A red or gold color will also attract the attention of Spanish mackerel.

Size of the fish

Spanish mackerel is an excellent way to enjoy seafood. These small fish are often found near the North Carolina coast. They pack a lot of punch, though they can be quite hardy. They eat a variety small pelagic fish such as anchovies or herring. Spanish mackerel, which are high in Omega-3 fat acids, is considered a healthy option. You can prepare them in any way you want.

You should remember several things when searching for this fish. This species is most commonly found in the Southeast's coastal waters between April and November. They migrate to the Gulf of Mexico, where they winter. They can migrate for a long time, but their migration periods can vary. The juveniles may live in waters that are low in salinity while the adults will live in higher salinity. In some parts of South Carolina, however, recreational fishing for Spanish Mackerel is permitted, especially near the shore. But, recreational fishing for Spanish mackerel can lead to overfishing.

Spanish mackerel Size in North Carolina: The Spanish Mackerel are smaller than the larger king mackerel. The Spanish mackerel averages two to three pounds. They have a small black spot at the edge of their forward dorsal and yellow/gold spots on their sides. You might catch one if you are lucky. They can be great for catching and eating, and they're delicious.

The average Spanish mackerel of North Carolina weighs less that a pound. However, there are many larger varieties. The Outstanding Catch Citation is the state's recognition of the largest Spanish mackerel fish. A fish that weighs more than six pounds is considered a world record. Fork length is 12 inches for Spanish mackerels in North Carolina. The catch limit is limited to 15 fish per day.

Habitat

North Carolina has many options when it comes to Spanish mackerel fishing. These invasive species are seasonal and can be found in waters as far north, as Cape Cod. They feed on small, schooling pelagic fish like anchovies, herring and other local species. These fish are more common in areas where there is a good fishing season.

Depending on the water temperature, the habitat of Spanish mackerel fishing in North Carolina can be anywhere from coastal open waters to bays. These fish can be found as deep down as 80 feet. Spanish mackerel, however, are not limited to coastal waters. They also thrive in residential canals as well as tidal creeks. These fish can be caught by chance, however.

These fish migrate south in the winter to migrate up the Atlantic Coast of the United States in April or May. These fish can be found in waters off North Carolina, along the eastern seaboard, by the middle of April or May. They will reach the Texas coast and the southern Cape Cod shores by the fall and summer. Their migrations will reach the southernmost regions of the country by July and August.

Spanish mackerel fishing is an excellent way to enjoy this tasty and meaty fish in North Carolina. They often catch them on small lures and live bait. They are voracious eaters like other mackerel species. Sometimes they will even strike lures intended for larger fish. These tips will help you catch some more of these tasty fish. You can now plan for your next fishing trip by following these tips.

Season

Spanish mackerel can be caught late spring or early in the summer. This species feeds in deep water, so baitfish should be smaller than the size of the Spanish. During this time of the year, baitfish that are designed for other species will often get attacked by the Spanish. To avoid this, you should slow tromp your baits or hang them from a pier. Use a small spoon with a 30 pound leader and tie a swivel around the diving planer. A spoon umbrella rig, or another bait geared towards Spanish mackerel can be used. You can also fish with a trolling line, but a swivel is better to keep the line from twisting. If you are new to fishing Spanish mackere,

Generally, the Atlantic Spanish mackerel quota is split into two zones, the Northern and the Southern. Each zone has its own trip limit. The Northern zone caps the daily limit on Spanish mackerel to 3,500 lbs. This quota must be met at least 75% of the times. If you are out fishing for Spanish Mackerel in North Carolina you can always bring a small bag with you and make sashimi from the fish.

Spanish mackerel can be caught at dawn and sunset. These fish are known to school and will visit the pier at any hour. You can catch them any time of the day. If you are able to spot them close to a pier, there is a good chance you will catch a large specimen. You might also try your luck during winter.

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FAQ

Are you able to fish without a bobber?

Yes. The bobber is used when the bait is being removed from the water. There are two parts to a bobber: the float, and the line. Attach the hook to the line at the end and then let go. The lure could sink to the bottom if you don't have a bobber. This makes it harder for fish to take the bait.

How far away from shore should I stand when fishing?

You are more likely to catch fish the further you stand from shore. However, this also increases the chances of getting wet.

Which bait is best for freshwater fishing?

Freshwater fishing requires live shrimp as the best bait. Shrimp are inexpensive, easy to catch, and taste great!

What should you wear when fishing?

Wear clothing that will protect you from the weather. You can protect yourself from the elements with gloves, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat. Make sure to bring insect repellent.

Are special licenses necessary to fish?

If you are planning to take fish out-of-state or across county lines, then no. Many states allow anglers fish without the need for a license. For more information, contact your local Fish & Wildlife department.

What are the different types of lures you can use?

Yes, there are many different types of lures. Some lures have been specifically designed for certain fish species. Others mimic insects and frogs. You can find lures in many shapes and sizes. Some lures are even shaped like real bugs.

What's the right fishing rod length?

The kind of fish that you are looking to catch determines the length of your fishing line. A 6'6" rod is ideal if you are targeting smallmouth bass. A 7'5" rod may be better if you are looking for largemouth bass.

Statistics

You likely have a fish hooked if the bobber moves erratically for over 5 seconds. (tailoredtackle.com)
Orvis, Simms, and Fishpond have been making some of the best packs and vests for a long time, and it seems like 90% of the anglers around the area use these brands. (troutandsteelhead.net)
For most freshwater species you are most likely to target when first starting out, a reel size of 20 to 30 should be more than enough! (strikeandcatch.com)
About 40 percent of all fish are freshwater species. (takemefishing.org)