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Spanish Mackerel Fishing Rods

By Mike Richardson 17 January, 2023 7 mins read

When it comes to casting spoons or got-cha lures for Spanish mackerel fishing, there are a few things you should know about these rigs. Bucktails can come in various sizes. You can adjust the size of the bucktails to match the size of the baitfish you're pursuing.

Casting spoons

Spanish bass are a good choice when selecting a rig. Casting spoons need to have a flat, long body and no cupping. Spanish bass feed on small baitfish. Shiny finishes are best for bright sunlight, while matte finishes work well for cloudy day. A single hook is all you need to set up your Spanish bass fishing rod. You should not use a double hook. This will increase the likelihood of missed strikes or a hiccup.

While a metal casting spoon can catch many fish, the most important species to target are Bluefish and Spanish mackerel. These species will be attracted to lures that have a quick retrieve. Fish will love a jigging spoon's fluttering action. A jigging teaspoon is also a good option if you fish on a river or lake.

Spanish mackerel do not have strong teeth and are drawn to light lures. Casting spoons with a thin wire will prevent the lure from bursting during a fight. A treble hook can be used to hook Spanish mackerel, despite their small size. You can protect your hands from the sharp teeth by using a light wire. The more effective the cast, the smaller the bait.

Got-Cha lures

A classic Got-Cha lure can be used to catch Spanish mackerel schools. This treble-hook bait is fast sinking at the end and can be easily retrieved. A deadly underwater darting action is created by jerking the rod tip. Spanish fish love the action. Be sure to let the lure sink to the bottom before jigging it. 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. The risk of losing a lot is high if the leader is too long. A medium-length leader may be difficult to attract Spanish mackerel. You should use a shorter leader if you are fishing in a stream or river.

A diamond jig has been the secret weapon for many charter boat captains. These jigs weigh only a few grams and can be used when Spanish mackerel consume glass minnows. They are enticed to strike with their flashy jigs. Diamond jigs are generally trolled, but larger versions are best used vertical jigging over structure.

Monofilament line

You can use braided or monofilament lines for your Spanish mackerel fishing gears. However, many anglers prefer monofilament. Monofilament line has a stretch that prevents the hook from pulling when the fish bites. These fish don't like leaders weighing more than 20 pounds, and they can be caught in open water. The type of Spanish Mackerel you wish to catch is key in choosing a leader.

Monofilament line is more expensive but fluorocarbon lines are a better choice than monofilament. Fluorocarbon line is superior for baits and live trap fishing because it is not easily detected as submerged. Mono is more resistant to snapping or fraying when the fish bites and also holds knots well. But mono is much more forgiving than fluoro and is cheaper.

Spanish mackerel are caught with live bait. Generally, you can use baitfish or shrimp, but a live sardine is the most effective. Spanish mackerel will prefer live bait that is flashy and quick-moving. Trolling spoons can be trolled at high speeds to cover a large area. Trolling is an ideal method of trolling when Spanish mackerel have stopped working on the surface.

Braided line

Choosing the right leader is crucial for catching more bites and landing more fish. Every mistake you make when you are targeting Spanish fish will be magnified. The ideal graphite rod is eight to ten foot in length. It doesn't feel too heavy, and it can reach Spanish schools. It's possible to cast longer distances using heavier wire but this is not necessary.

Spanish mackerel will be attracted to a gotcha bait. This lure sinks rapidly at the end of the cast and jerking it causes deadly darting under the water. 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 Florida fishing, you will need a fly rod with a drag system and weighing between 8 and 9 pounds. A floating line works best when fishing on the top, while a sinker can be used in the deeper flats. A wire leader can interfere with fish's vision. Monofilament leaders can be used for surface fishing. But Spanish mackerel may prefer wire leaders.

Speck rigs

There are many different ways to use Speck rigs with Spanish makers. You can catch some amazing Spanish regardless of whether you are a novice fisherman or a veteran. Pete recommends trolling a speck lure well behind the boat. The line should be longer than the boat so the motor does not disturb the lure. Another method is to use small menhaden as a free-spool, also called peanut bunker or pogy.

Speck Rigs can be fished either from a shoreline or from a pier. Quarter casts of 45 degrees are recommended to get the best out of the speck rig. The "Water Walker" fishing gear can be used to fish from the shore. This replaces an in-line sinker, with a weighted popping cok. This allows fish to mimic baitfish by flipping it. Another popular Speck rig is the Love Lures Speck Rig. It is composed of two jigs attached to dropper loops and an fluorocarbon leader that weighs 20 or 30 lbs.

Trolling around structures is one way to catch these fish. Kingfish are often found close to beaches and buoys. Baits that work well are alewives, small menhaden, live shrimp and alewives. Use fresh shrimp or live shrimp to target them close to structures. While trolls are the most popular method for catching Spanish mackerel, other types of lures can be used.

Drifting

Knowing the basics of drifting for Spanish mackerel is essential. You will need a leader of 30 feet to get started. You can either hand line it or attach it to your boat. But, be sure to watch for strikes. You'll notice that your lures speed changes when you make 90-degree turn. The speed of the lines going inside the turn will decrease, and the speed of those going outside the turn will increase. Match the speed of your lines catching more fish.

Drifting baits work well with either artificial or live bait. Live shrimp, bait fish, or a dead bait are all excellent choices. For drifting, split shot is also a good choice. To lower the risk of cutoffs you will need to use a long-shanked line. It will work well with a 1/0 hook. A 1/0 hook allows you to cover a larger area. Drifting can be used in both offshore and inshore waters.

Artificial reefs can also be used to attract Spanish mackerel. These fish can also be found near the bottom, close to tunnel tubes. You can also use baited plugs and cut bait if you're on a pier. Drifting live bait is the best method to catch these species. In the summer, you can fish off the coast Virginia. If the current is running hard, the fish will most likely be aggressive and attack metal spoons.

Live bait

You will need to ensure that you have the right rig if you plan to use live bait to catch Spanish Mackerel. The Spanish mackerel fishing gear is the same as the king mackerel rigs. Instead of using one hook, you will use two smaller bucktails with a single No. 6 treble hook. These bucktails come in a variety of sizes, depending on how big your baitfish are.

You can use live bait as a shrimp, or small silvery fish. You can also cast it in a school of fish breaking or drag it across open ocean. Chumping can also be used to strike a strike. The best way to catch Spanish mackerel is usually with live bait. These fish are also easy to clean and can be found at your local bait shop.

When drifting for Spanish mackerel, you can use live or artificial bait. Drifting is best when using live shrimp or bait fish. Split shot can be used to attract more Spanish mackerel. Long-shanked hooks work best with this type of fish. This reduces cutoffs. For all-purpose use, the 1/0 size is a great choice.

FAQ

Is it possible for me to fish both at night and during the day?

Yes, but make sure to use artificial light. Fisherman use artificial light to attract fish. They work well when the sun goes down because fish become more active after dark.

What is the cost of basic fishing gear?

Basic fishing equipment starts at $100-$200, including rod/reel and bait combos, as well as tackle boxes and bait. You will need to spend $500-$1000 if you plan to rent a larger boat.

How much money can I expect to spend on fishing gear?

You don’t have to spend much on fishing gear. There are many low-cost options. You can buy a cheap line, hook, and reel. Or, you can invest in a high-quality rod and reel set.

How long does it take to become an expert fisherman?

It takes years of practice to become an expert fisherman. Being a successful fisherman will require you to master new techniques and enhance your skills.

What can I do to get my children interested in fishing?

Absolutely! Kids love to fish. Many children who grow up fishing never stop. Encourage your child to learn how to fish. You can show your child how to tie knots, make a fishing pole and teach them good fishing etiquette. You can also show them photos of fish and tell them stories about fishing.

How far away from shore should I stand when fishing?

The closer you are to the shore, the greater your chances of catching fish. However, this also increases the chances of getting wet.

Statistics

It is estimated there are at least 2 million people who go fishing in California each year. (californiayachtsales.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)