Atlantic Mackerel
Atlantic Mackerel are a fast-moving schooling fish that migrate through Canadian coastal waters from the Bay of Fundy to Labrador each season.
Recreationally, they're a light-tackle staple — easy to find when schools are running, fun on simple gear, and excellent table fare. Commercially, they're a critical bait species, particularly for the bluefin tuna fishery.
Scientific Name: Scomber scombrus
Also known as Maquereau atlantique, Boston mackerel, slimy mackerel
- Iridescent blue-green back with 20–30 wavy dark bars running across the upper half of the body — the clearest field mark separating them from similar species.
- Silvery-white belly, spindle-shaped body tapering sharply at both ends, and a strongly forked tail built for sustained speed.
- Vivid coloration fades quickly after death, so the best ID is made on a fresh, live fish.
- Typical size runs under a pound; the upper end is around 16½ inches and 2.2 lbs.
What to know
Habitat Distribution
- Native to the Northwest Atlantic; in Canadian waters, the Northern contingent ranges from the Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence north to Labrador.
- A migratory, open-water schooling fish — they move inshore along the Atlantic coast seasonally, coming within easy reach of shore anglers from spring through fall.
- Commercially fished from the Bay of Fundy to Labrador; the Gulf of St. Lawrence is the primary spawning ground for the Canadian (Northern) contingent.
- No swim bladder — they must keep moving to breathe, which keeps them in the water column rather than holding near bottom structure.
Key Locations
- Southern Gulf of St. Lawrence — the primary spawning ground for the Northern contingent and a major commercial and recreational area.
- Bay of Fundy — strong tidal currents concentrate mackerel schools and make them accessible from shore and small boats.
- Labrador and Newfoundland coasts — the northern edge of the Canadian range; mackerel appear here during summer migrations.
- Nova Scotia coastline — inshore waters from the Maritimes region see consistent mackerel runs through the open season.
Specific Spots
- Schools move through open water but concentrate near the surface, especially early morning and evening — watch for birds diving or baitfish breaking the surface.
- Wharves, jetties, and rocky points funnel migrating schools close to shore, making them accessible without a boat.
- Current edges and tide rips push baitfish together, and mackerel follow — fish the moving water rather than slack areas.
Atlantic Mackerel FAQ
Answers from onWater's species guide.
What are the best lures and bait for Atlantic Mackerel?
Sabiki rigs are the most effective tool, the small feathered or tinsel hooks imitate shrimp and tiny baitfish, and you can hook multiple mackerel on a single drop.
What flies work for Atlantic Mackerel?
Small Clouser Minnows (which imitate baitfish) in white, chartreuse, or silver are a reliable choice, keep them sparse and small, size 4–6.
When is the best time to fish for Atlantic Mackerel?
Open season for recreational fishing runs April 1 through December 31 in tidal waters in the Maritimes region. Mackerel are most accessible inshore from late spring through summer as they migrate north and into coastal waters.
How do you catch Atlantic Mackerel?
Most recreational anglers in Canada fish mackerel from wharves, jetties, or small boats using light spinning gear and sabiki rigs, working the rig through the water column until a school is located.
What do Atlantic Mackerel eat?
Mackerel feed on small baitfish, shrimp, and zooplankton near the surface, anything small and flashy that moves through the school triggers a strike. Small metal jigs and spoons imitate the baitfish and shrimp they're chasing.
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