fishing license

Spanish Mackerel Fishing Rigs

By Bob Thomas 14 April, 2023 6 mins read

Casting spoons and got-cha baits for Spanish mackerel fishing is easy if you know a few basics. There are many sizes for bucktails. You can adjust the size of the bucktails to match the size of the baitfish you're pursuing.

Casting spoons

Spanish bass are the best choice when it comes to choosing a rod. Casting spoons should be flat and have no cupping. They also need to be short in length. Spanish bass prefer small baitfish and so a shiny, glossy finish is great for sunny days. For cloudy days, a matte finish will work well. A single hook is all you need to set up your Spanish bass fishing rod. A treble hook will cause missed strikes and a hiccup, so don't use it.

A metal casting bowl can catch a variety, but the primary species to aim for are Bluefish or Spanish mackerel. These species will generally be attracted by lures that are fast to retrieve. A jigging bowl will create a fluttering action fish love. You can also use a jigging stick to fish in rivers or lakes.

Spanish mackerel can't eat hard food and prefer light lures. Casting spoons using a lighter wire will keep the lure in place during fights. Spanish mackerel is small but can still be hooked using a triple hook. The light wire will protect your hand from the razor sharp teeth. Your cast will be more effective if you have a smaller bait.

Got-Cha lures

The classic Got-Cha lure makes a great choice if you want to catch Spanish mackerel schools. This treble-hook bait is fast sinking at the end and can be easily retrieved. You can make a deadly darting underwater action by jerking your rod tip. Spanish fish simply can't resist the action. Before jigging the lure, let it sink to the bottom. For the best chances of hooking a Spanish Mackerel, make sure to reach the bottom of the water column using the lure.

You need to use Got-Cha lures in Spanish makerel fishing rigs. If you use a long leader, you may lose a lot of fish. Spanish mackerel will not like a leader that is longer than a medium length. Fishing in streams and rivers requires a shorter leader.

A diamond jig is the secret weapon of many charter boat captains. These jigs can be light-weighted and are very effective when Spanish mackerel feed on clear water glass minnows. These jigs provide enough incentive for them to strike. Diamond jigs are generally trolled, but larger versions are best used vertical jigging over structure.

Monofilament line

Although braided lines can be used on Spanish mackerel fishing rods, many anglers prefer monofilament line. Monofilament lines have a stretch that stops the hook pulling against the fish's teeth. A leader 20 pounds is unlikely to be eaten by these fish, as they live in open seas. Choosing a leader is a balancing act that depends on the type of Spanish mackerel you want to catch.

Fluorocarbon line is a more expensive choice than monofilament, but it has a number of advantages over mono. Fluorocarbon lines are better for live trap and bait angling as they can't be detected submerged. Mono is less likely for the fish to bite and fray, and it also holds knots better. Mono is also much more flexible than fluoro, and it is less expensive.

Live bait is an effective way to catch Spanish mackerel. You can use shrimp or baitfish, but live sardines are the best. Spanish mackerel will appreciate live bait that's flashy, fast-moving and attractive. Trolling spoons are designed for trolling at high speeds, covering a wide area. Trolling is a great option for Spanish mackerel that aren't active on the surface.

Braided line

The key to catching more fish and landing more is choosing the right leader. Any mistake made when targeting Spanish will only make matters worse. The ideal graphite rod is eight to ten foot in length. It doesn't feel too heavy, and it can reach Spanish schools. While you can use heavier wire for casting long distances it's not necessary.

Spanish mackerel will be attracted to a gotcha bait. This lure sinks fast at the end, and jerking its tip causes deadly darting actions under the surface. It is so dangerous that Spanish fish will eat it! Once you have retrieved the lure from water, place it in the bottom of the pool and check for any fish.

For fishing in Florida, you'll need a 8 to nine-weight fly rod with an excellent drag system. For fishing on the surface, a floating line will work best. A sinker or intermediate sinker will work well in deeper flats. A wire leader can block the fish's view. Monofilament leaders can be used for surface fishing. But Spanish mackerel may prefer wire leaders.

Speck rigs

There are many methods to use Speck rigs in Spanish maker fishing. No matter your experience level, a speck-rig can help you catch some of the most powerful Spanish. Pete recommends trolling the lure behind your boat. The line should be longer than the boat so the motor does not disturb the lure. Another option is to use a free-spool small menhaden (known as peanut bunker, or pogy).

Speck rigs can be fished from a pier or the beach. Quarter casts of 45° are recommended in order to get the most from the speck-rig. If you're fishing from the pier you can use the "Water Walker", a fishing rig that replaces the inline sinker and uses a weighted popping corn. It allows fishes to mimic baitfish by flipping over the rig. Love Lures Speck Rig, another popular Speck rig, is also available. It is composed of two jigs attached to dropper loops and an fluorocarbon leader that weighs 20 or 30 lbs.

Trolling around structures is a popular way to catch these fish. Kingfish are found close to buoys and beaches. Excellent baits include alewives and small menhaden. When targeting them near structure, use a speck rig with live shrimp or fresh shrimp. Although trolls are most commonly used to catch Spanish mackerel in the wild, there are other options.

Drifting

It is important to learn the ropes of Spanish mackerel drifting. A 30-foot leader is necessary to start. Although you can hand line it to the boat, it is important to be aware of where strikes are coming. When you are making 90-degree turns, you will notice the speed of your lures change. The speed of your lines will vary depending on which side you're turning. Match the speeds of lines that are catching fish more often.

Drifting baits are either made of live or artificial bait. You have many options. Split shot is also useful for drifting. You will need a long-shanked hook to decrease the risk of cutoffs. It will work well with a 1/0 hook. Using a 1/0 hook will allow you to cover a large area. Drifting can be used in both offshore and inshore waters.

Artificial reefs can be used to attract Spanish Mackerel. These fish can be found close to the bottom of the Bay at the tunnel tubes. Use baited or cut bait when fishing from a dock. Drifting live bait is the best way to fish for these species. You can also try fishing off the coast of Virginia during the summertime. If the current runs strong, fish are more likely to attack metal spoons and be aggressive.

Live bait

You will need to ensure that you have the right rig if you plan to use live bait to catch Spanish Mackerel. Spanish mackerel fishing equipment is basically the same as for king mackerel. Instead of one hook, use two smaller and one larger bucktails. 6 treble hook. These bucktails may be small or big depending on the size your baitfish.

You can either use live bait, such as shrimps or small silvery fish. You can also cast it in a school of fish breaking or drag it across open ocean. Chumming, either inshore or offshore can also be used for a strike. Live bait is generally the best method to catch Spanish mackerel. These fish are easy-to-clean and can be purchased at any local bait shop.

You can also use artificial or live bait when you drift for Spanish mackerel. Drifting is a good way to catch Spanish mackerel. You can use live shrimp and bait fish, or split shot. This type of hook works best because it reduces cutoffs. The 1/0 size hook is great for all-around use.

FAQ

Is it safe for me to eat fish that has been caught by another person?

Always check with the seller to see if there is a freshness date. It's safe to eat if the fish doesn't have an expiration date. But if the fish looks old or smells bad, then you shouldn't eat it.

What should I wear while fishing?

Wear clothes that protect you from the elements. Sunscreen, gloves, sunglasses and sunscreen are all great options. Also, bring along insect repellent.

Do I need special licenses to fish?

You cannot unless you plan on taking fish out of the state or beyond county boundaries. Many states allow anglers fishing without a license. Check with your local Fish & Wildlife agency to see what is required.

What is the cost of basic fishing gear?

Basic fishing equipment is around $100-$200 for rod/reel combination, bait, tackle box, and so on. A larger boat will cost you between $500-$1000.

Where can i buy fishing supplies

You can purchase all of these items at most sporting goods stores. However, if you are looking for something specific, you may want to check online. Many websites offer everything you need, from tackle boxes and lures to rods or reels.

What kind of fishing licence do I need?

You will need a fishing permit if your plan is to fish on state waters (i.e. the lakes, rivers and beaches). A valid fishing license is required by state law for anglers before they can fish. If you plan on fishing in federal waters (e.g., oceans or Great Lakes), you must obtain a valid fishing licence. A fishing license is not necessary. However, you will need to check with the authorities before you take any fish home.

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)
About 40 percent of all fish are freshwater species. (takemefishing.org)
To substantiate this theory, Knight attempted a systematic inquiry by considering the timing of 200 'record' catches, more than 90 percent were made during a new moon (when no moon is visible). (myfwc.com)