Mackerel Fishing 101

Mackerel season is right around the corner, and anglers all around the country are already hauling in some beauties. If you’re ready to put yourself and your gear to the test with these high-speed predators, here are some key tactics, killer gear, and perfect timing tips to help you land a trophy fish.

Optimal Times to Catch Mackerel

Timing is everything when targeting mackerel, as they are highly migratory and their presence in certain regions of Australia can depend on water temperature and baitfish availability. Here’s when and where you’ll have the best luck:

• Season: The best time to catch mackerel is during the warmer months, typically from September to April. In northern Australia, mackerel can be caught almost year-round due to the warmer waters and consistent temperatures, although peak activity is in the summer.

• Tides and Time of Day: Mackerel bite best during high tide and the few hours leading up to it, when big schools of baitfish are washing in, with mackerel following them. From my experience, early mornings to midday are the best times to land one of these monsters, but this may vary depending on baitfish.

Pro tip: It doesn’t matter what species you're targeting—always check the barometric pressure (atmospheric pressure) when planning a fishing session. Fish tend to bite more when the pressure is high and/or rising, and bite slower when the pressure is low and/or falling. Aim for a pressure reading of 1029.8 to 1030.2 hPa, as this has been shown to be optimal for fishing.

Best Gear for Mackerel Fishing

To increase your chances of landing a big mackerel, it’s important to use the right gear. Here’s a breakdown of the essential equipment:

• Rod and Reel: Use a medium to heavy spinning rod. I recommend a length of 8–9 feet, with a 10–15 kg rating, to ensure a long, accurate cast and enough strength to pull one of these monsters from the deep blue.

  Reel Size: Look for a reel in the 4000–6000 range, or even the 8000 size if you’re chasing monsters. This will give you enough line capacity and drag strength to fight these powerful fish. While I personally use a spinning reel, a baitcaster is also a great choice for heavy fish.

  I recommend the Shimano Terez Spinning Rod 7ft 2in with a 20–50 lb capacity, paired with the Daiwa Saltist MQ Spinning Reel 5000D-H.

• Line and Leader:

  • Main Line: A braided line with a strength of 30–40 lbs is ideal. I use Berkley ProSpec X8 Braid Line 300m 30lb in blue camo.

  • Leader: Use a 50+ lb fluorocarbon leader for its abrasion resistance and underwater invisibility. If targeting larger Spanish mackerel, consider adding a short nylon-coated wire trace to prevent bite-offs. I personally use Daiwa J-Thread Fluorocarbon Leader Line 50lb.

• Lures and Bait:

  • Trolling Lures: Mackerel are notorious for hitting fast-moving targets. Use deep-diving hard-body lures or minnows in bright, natural colors like blue, green, and silver, mimicking the baitfish they chase.

  • Metal Slugs and Spoons: When casting from shore or a boat, heavy metal slugs or chrome spoons work wonders. Retrieve them fast to entice a strike.

  • Live Bait: If lures aren’t working, try using live baitfish like pilchards, sardines, or garfish on a lightly weighted rig.

  • Dead Bait: Dead bait, such as tailor or mullet fillets, or pilchards rigged on a gang hook with light weight, can hook up consistently. I always have at least one rod with bait out, waiting for a good hit.

  • Wild Card - Swimbaits: I’ve been testing swimbaits recently, and they work wonders, almost perfectly mimicking baitfish. Work these with a fast retrieve or a slow, steady troll to get some good bites.

Techniques for Mackerel Fishing

Here are a few tried-and-true methods that consistently deliver great results and help you land trophy fish:

• Trolling: This is one of the most effective ways to cover ground and find mackerel schools. Troll lures behind your boat at varying depths, around 6–8 knots, especially along drop-offs, reefs, and current lines where mackerel hunt.

• Drifting with Live Bait: Use live baitfish under a balloon or on a lightly weighted rig and drift over reefs or structures. Mackerel love hunting in areas with plenty of bait, so keeping your presentation natural is key.

• Casting: If you spot a school of mackerel feeding on the surface, cast metal slugs, swimbaits, or poppers into the frenzy. Use a fast, jerky retrieve to mimic a panicking baitfish.

Hot Spots for Mackerel in Australia

Some of the best locations for mackerel fishing in Australia include:

• Whitsundays, QLD: Known for large Spanish mackerel.

• Hervey Bay, QLD: A haven for school and spotted mackerel.

• Broome, WA: Ideal for both Spanish and school mackerel.

• Coffs Harbour, NSW: Great for spotted and school mackerel.

Pro Tips

• Watch for Bird Activity: When seabirds are diving, it usually means baitfish are being pushed to the surface by predators like mackerel. Follow the birds to find your catch.

• Check Water Clarity: Mackerel prefer clean, clear water. Fishing on days when the water is slightly clearer after a tide change can make all the difference.

• Stay Patient: Mackerel are fast but can be picky. If you don’t get a strike after a few passes, change your lure color or speed. Persistence often pays off.

• Check Barometric Pressure: As mentioned before, always check the barometric pressure before heading out.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped and ready for your next mackerel fishing session. These aggressive, high-speed hunters are thrilling targets that reward patience, skill, and the right gear. Tight lines and happy fishing!