SPANISH MACKEREL – Scomberomorus maculatus

Article by: Mark Mayo

Family Scombridae, MACKERELS AND TUNAS

Description: color of back green, shading to silver on sides, golden yellow irregular spots above and below lateral line; front of dorsal fin black; lateral line curves gently to base of tail.

Similar fish: cero, S. regalis; king mackerel,. cavalla.

Where found: INSHORE, NEARSHORE, and OFFSHORE, especially over deep grass beds and reefs; absent from north Florida waters in winter.

Size: average catch less than 2 pounds (20 inches).

Remarks: schooling fish that migrates northward in spring, returning to southerly waters when water temperatures drop below about 70 degrees F; spawns OFFSHORE, spring through summer; feeds on small fish and squid.

Mark Mayo

I research and report on fishing, fishing gear/equipment, survival topics, and marketing for outdoors related businesses. I assist here on CB Fishing as the editor. Articles may contain AI researched content. All content is published for education and entertainment purposes only, NOT LIFE, HEALTH, SURVIVAL, FINANCIAL, BUSINESS, LEGAL OR ANY OTHER ADVICE. Learn more about Mark Mayo