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Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel

Spanish Mackerel are a migratory species found along South Carolina's Atlantic coast, ranging from coastal rivers to offshore waters beyond the continental shelf. These are voracious predators with razor-sharp teeth and sight feeders that prefer clear water.

Scientific Name: Scomberomorus maculatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Sleek, torpedo-shaped fish easily identified by their bluish-green backs, silver sides adorned with numerous small yellow to bronze spots, and a distinctive black anterior portion on their first dorsal fin.
  • Adults typically measure 15 inches and weigh 1.5 pounds, though they can reach up to 11 pounds (South Carolina state record from 1983).

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in offshore coastal waters, nearshore reefs, artificial structures, jetties, inlets, and occasionally enter high-salinity estuarine waters.

Key Locations

  • Charleston Harbor, Myrtle Beach area, Winyah Bay, Murrells Inlet, Georgetown area jetties, nearshore artificial reefs, and offshore waters 1-5 miles from shore.

Specific Spots

  • Typically hunt in the upper third of the water column, often 20-40 feet below the surface.

Spanish Mackerel FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Spanish Mackerel in South Carolina?

Rapala X-Rap plugs (size 8-10 in white/ghost), Kastmaster or Crocodile casting spoons (3/4-1 oz in gold/silver), Bass Assassin Sea Shad soft plastics (4 inch in chartreuse/glow), Gotcha lures with chrome finish, diamond jigs for finicky fish, Clark spoons, live shrimp, and cut bait on long-shank hooks.

When is the best time to fish for Spanish Mackerel in South Carolina?

Most productive from April through November, with peak action occurring from July through October when water temperatures are optimal. The species follows a seasonal migration pattern, arriving in South Carolina waters as temperatures warm in spring and providing excellent fishing through autumn.

How do you catch Spanish Mackerel in South Carolina?

Trolling spoons behind planers, casting spoons and plugs with fast, erratic retrieves, drift fishing with live shrimp or cut bait on long-shank hooks, and sight-casting to surface-feeding schools. For trolling, use Clark spoons with #1 or #2 planers at 5-7 mph, or troll Rapala X-Raps without planers in shallow areas.

What do Spanish Mackerel eat?

Feed primarily on small schooling fish including anchovies (Anchoa spp.), sardines, threadfin herring, and glass minnows. They also consume shrimp and squid as secondary prey items.

Where do Spanish Mackerel live in South Carolina?

Found in offshore coastal waters, nearshore reefs, artificial structures, jetties, inlets, and occasionally enter high-salinity estuarine waters.

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