Caught a Spanish Mackerel Inshore in Tampa

Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus) are highly prized gamefish belonging to the order Perciformes and family Scombridae. These streamlined predators are easily identified by their silvery coloration with dark greenish tops and distinctive yellowish oval spots scattered along their sides. In Tampa waters this September, Spanish Mackerel provide consistent action for inshore anglers targeting the flats and nearshore structure.

Spanish Mackerel Overview

Spanish Mackerel are fast-swimming pelagic fish that inhabit both coasts of Florida and throughout the Gulf of Mexico. Anglers value them for their aggressive strikes, strong fights, and excellent table fare. These schooling fish migrate seasonally, making them available to Tampa Bay anglers year-round with peak activity during fall months.

Spanish Mackerel Habitat and Distribution

These versatile fish inhabit offshore, onshore, and nearshore waters, adapting to various depths and structures. Around Tampa Bay, they frequent grass flats, channel edges, and areas with current flow where baitfish concentrate. Spanish Mackerel prefer water temperatures between 68-85°F and are commonly found from the surface down to 80 feet.

Spanish Mackerel Size and Weight

Spanish Mackerel typically range from 20 to 72 inches in length, with weights from 8 to 120 pounds. Most Tampa Bay catches fall between 14-20 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds, though larger specimens exceeding 5 pounds are caught regularly during peak seasons.

Spanish Mackerel Diet and Behavior

These aggressive predators feed primarily on small fish including sardines, anchovies, and silversides, along with shrimp and squid. They hunt in schools, often creating feeding frenzies at the surface that attract diving birds. Spanish Mackerel are most active during dawn and dusk, though they can be caught throughout the day when conditions are right.

Spanish Mackerel Spawning Season

Spanish Mackerel spawn in nearshore waters from April through September, with peak activity during summer months. They prefer water temperatures above 75°F for spawning, releasing eggs in open water that develop into larvae within days. This extended spawning season contributes to their abundance in Florida waters.

Spanish Mackerel Fishing Techniques

Effective techniques include trolling small spoons or diving plugs, casting jigs or live bait around schools, and drift fishing with cut bait. Light tackle enhances the fight, with 10-15 pound test line being ideal. In September around Tampa, anglers find success using silver spoons trolled at 4-6 knots over grass flats and channel edges where baitfish are present.

Spanish Mackerel Is It Good to Eat?

Spanish Mackerel are excellent table fare when properly handled and prepared fresh. Their meat is firm, flaky, and mild-flavored with moderate oil content. They're high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids while being relatively low in mercury. Popular preparations include grilling, blackening, or smoking, with the skin-on fillets holding together well during cooking.

Spanish Mackerel Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Spanish Mackerel?

A: Live shrimp, small pilchards, and silver spoons are top choices. Cut bait and small jigs also work well when fish are actively feeding.

Q: Where can I find Spanish Mackerel near Tampa?

A: Look for them around grass flats, channel edges, and areas with current flow in Tampa Bay. The Palm River-Clair Mel area consistently produces good catches.

Q: Is Spanish Mackerel good to eat?

A: Yes, Spanish Mackerel are excellent eating when fresh. Their firm, flaky meat is mild-flavored and high in healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Q: When is the best time to catch Spanish Mackerel?

A: Fall months offer excellent fishing, with dawn and dusk being prime times. They're available year-round in Tampa Bay waters with varying seasonal patterns.