(family: scombrinae) 

The mackerel family has several species which frequent the waters of the Torres Straits. Spanish, Shark, Grey and Spotted mackerels are found in our waters in good numbers, predominantly between May and December, though I have caught all of these fish year round.

The mackerel family are excellent sport fish, particularly on light gear, and are caught casting and trolling lures, on fly, and on live and fresh baits. Trolling skirts short in the boats wake can be a spectacular method of hooking Spaniards, as they generally launch vertically when they slam the offering. Equally effective is floating pillys or gar with a balloon, while fishing the bottom for reef species.

All mackerel species are known for their scintillating runs, the sound of a screaming ratchet, music to any fisher-persons ears. To top it off, mackerel are great chewing, a clean fresh fillet a favourite at any table.

Bag Limits in Qld apply as follows :

Spanish Mackerel min 75 cm, a max. take of 3 fish

Grey Mackerel min 50 cm, a max. take of 10 fish

Shark Mackerel min 50cm, no take limit

Spotted Mackerel, min 60cm, a max. take of 10 fish