10 Hour Summer Morning Fishing - Destin
Private Trip
Offshore Fishing
Ten-hour offshore charter targeting multiple species including snapper and grouperTrophy opportunities for king mackerel, tuna, mahi mahi, and sharksMaximum six guests with King of Kings Charters in Destin
When you've got a full day to burn and serious fish on your mind, this 10-hour summer morning trip with King of Kings Charters is exactly what you're looking for. We're talking about heading out into the emerald waters of the Gulf of Mexico when the fish are most active, giving you plenty of time to work multiple spots and target everything from trophy King Mackerel to heavyweight Grouper. With just six anglers max, you'll have room to fight fish without bumping elbows, plus Captain gets to spend real time with each person on board. Summer mornings in Destin are prime time - cooler temps, calmer seas, and fish that haven't been pressured all day long.
This isn't your typical half-day rush job where you barely get your lines wet before heading back to the dock. Ten hours gives us the luxury of time - we can start the morning targeting bottom dwellers like Red Snapper and various Grouper species over structure, then move to different zones as conditions change. You'll experience the full range of Gulf fishing, from dropping heavy rigs down 80+ feet for monster Grouper to trolling the blue water for pelagics like Mahi Mahi and Blackfin Tuna. The boat's equipped with quality tackle, but if you've got favorite rods or lucky lures, bring them along. We'll hit 2-3 different fishing spots throughout the day, adjusting our game plan based on what's biting and where the action is hottest. And here's something cool - if you're up for it, we can dedicate some time to shark fishing, which is absolutely electric when you hook into a big Bull or Hammerhead.
Out here, we fish smart and adapt to what Mother Nature gives us. Early morning usually means bottom fishing over artificial reefs and natural hard bottom, where we'll drop heavy jigs and live bait rigs for Grouper and Snapper. We're using circle hooks for the bottom fish - better hook sets and easier releases when needed. As the day progresses and boat traffic picks up, we'll often shift to trolling patterns for the pelagic species. King Mackerel love a well-presented live bait or a flashy spoon pulled behind a planer board. For Mahi Mahi, we'll look for floating debris, weed lines, or temperature breaks where these beauties like to hang out. The 10-hour window lets us fish both inshore structure in 60-80 feet and push out to the deeper blue water beyond 100 feet. Summer months bring great visibility, so we can actually see schools of baitfish and diving birds that point us toward feeding game fish.
Red Snapper are the crown jewel of Gulf bottom fishing, and when they're in season, these ruby-red fighters put up a serious scrap. They typically hang around structure in 60-120 feet of water, and summer months are prime time before the heat gets too intense. A good Snapper will pull drag and test your patience with their bulldogging runs back toward the bottom. What makes them special is their aggressive strike and the way they seem to appear out of nowhere on the fish finder.
Spanish Mackerel are speed demons that'll absolutely smoke your drag if you're not ready. These silver bullets love to hit fast-moving baits and lures, often jumping clear out of the water when hooked. Summer brings big schools of Spanish Mackerel to Destin's waters, and they're perfect for lighter tackle fishing. They're also fantastic table fare when prepared fresh, with firm white meat that's perfect for the grill.
Gag Grouper are the bruisers of the reef, often weighing 15-30+ pounds and fighting like they're twice that size. These guys love ledges, rocks, and artificial structure where they can ambush prey. Summer is prime Gag season in the Gulf, and they're known for their initial power runs toward structure. Once you hook a big Gag, it's all about keeping them out of the rocks and letting your drag do the work.
King Mackerel are the trophy hunters' dream fish, with summer bringing some real giants to Destin's waters. These torpedo-shaped predators can exceed 40+ pounds and will test every piece of equipment you've got. They're notorious for their blazing runs and acrobatic jumps, often throwing the hook if you don't maintain proper line tension. Kings love live bait presentations and trolled baits along temperature breaks and drop-offs.
Grey Triggerfish might not win beauty contests, but they're scrappy fighters with serious attitude. These bottom dwellers have powerful jaws designed for crushing shells and coral, so they'll test your tackle with their bulldogging style. Summer months bring Triggerfish up from deeper waters to feed over the reefs, and they're actually excellent eating despite their unusual appearance. They're also great for kids or novice anglers since they bite readily and fight hard relative to their size.
A 10-hour summer morning trip represents the best value in Gulf fishing - maximum time on the water when conditions are optimal, variety of target species, and the flexibility to adapt as the day unfolds. With King of Kings Charters, you're getting a top-rated crew that knows these waters inside and out, quality equipment, and the kind of personal attention that only comes with small group sizes. Summer dates fill up fast, especially for the longer trips that serious anglers prefer. Whether you're after a cooler full of table fare, that trophy photo, or just a day of pure fishing action, this trip delivers on all fronts. Don't wait until peak season hits full swing - book your spot now and get ready for the kind of fishing day that'll have you planning your next trip before you even hit the dock.
Ready to spend a full day targeting the Gulf's best gamefish? This spacious 35-foot JC boat runs on a powerful 450HP Cummins engine, giving you the speed and reliability needed for serious offshore fishing in Destin's productive waters. With GPS, fishfinder, and radar onboard, you'll efficiently locate prime fishing spots whether you're after Red Snapper, Grouper, King Mackerel, or Blackfin Tuna. The boat comfortably handles up to 6 anglers and comes equipped with everything needed for a successful day on the water - an icebox to keep your catch fresh and drinks cold, plus a toilet and even a bed for longer runs. Ten hours gives you plenty of time to explore different depths and structures, from targeting bottom dwellers like Scamp and Gag Grouper to chasing pelagic species like Mahi Mahi. If you're feeling adventurous, shark fishing is always an option for those looking to hook into something truly memorable in Destin's Gulf waters.
Mycteroperca Microlepis<h2><span style="color:windowtext;"><strong>Gag Grouper (</strong><i><strong>Mycteroperca Microlepis</strong></i><strong>)</strong> <strong>Fish</strong> <strong>Description</strong></span></h2><p>The Gag Grouper appears to be one of the less aesthetically appealing fish among the Groupers. Some even describe the Gag Grouper as “drab” in appearance. Its fins are mostly composed are rays and have a laterally-compressed oblong body. However, it does have a similarity to the Black Grouper: it’s the box-shaped black spots on the back. Their dorsal fins have 11 spines mixed with 16-18 rays while their anal fins have 3 spins with a mix of 10-12 rays.</p><p>Female Gag Groupers are normally pale or medium grey in color. Their bodies have a more <i>marbled</i> appearance due to the wavy patterns covering their bodies. But the best way to tell a female and a male apart is through the dorsal fin. Unlike female Gag Groupers, a male Gag Grouper’s dorsal fin is reticulated. Color-wise however, they are also darker than female Gag Groupers. Their bellies and breast are usually dark gray, almost black. </p><p> </p><h2><span style="color:windowtext;"><strong>Gag Grouper Diet and Size</strong></span></h2><p>Depending on their size, a Gag Grouper’s diet changes. Though, Gag Groupers are seen to prefer a variety of crustaceans such as crab and shrimp. They do like some fish and sometimes, an occasional squid.</p><p>An average Gag Grouper is 20 inches (50 cm) long. However, some have reported seeing a Gag Grouper reach 145 cm (57 inches) in length and weigh 36.5 kg (80 lbs).</p><p> </p><h2><span style="color:windowtext;"><strong>Interesting Facts about the Gag Grouper</strong></span></h2><ul><li>Gag Groupers, when they mature, change sex from female to male.<ul><li>When they’re young, all Gag Groupers start out as females.</li><li>However, Gag Groupers are more commonly female.</li></ul></li><li>Gag Groupers grow slowly. It usually takes them5-6 years to sexually mature.</li><li>Juvenile Gag Groupers have a different habitat preference to adult Gag Groupers.</li><li>Its scientific name <i>microlepis</i> means <i>small scales</i> in <i>Latin</i>.</li><li>Gag Groupers can live up to 30 years.</li><li>Red Tide can heavily affect Gag Grouper populations.</li></ul><p> </p><h2><span style="color:windowtext;"><strong>Gag Grouper – Fishing Techniques: How to Fish for a Gag Grouper</strong></span></h2><p>The first thing to look for is a place that can serve as shelter. Gag Groupers like hiding so, they would make use of any structure that can serve as shelter. Young Gag Groupers prefer staying inshore and in shoals until they mature. Older Gag Groupers loiter around offshore reefs and shipwrecks. Usually, when fishing for Gag Groupers, they are usually accompanied by Kingfish and Spanish Mackerel. At times, they’re also accompanied by Blacktip and Spinner Sharks. They’re found chasing herrings that swarm near the beach.</p><p>Others advise looking for stone crab traps. Since Gag Groupers love crab, they’ll most likely go to a place where crabs hide.</p><p>When it comes to bait choice, Gag Groupers love live bait. They prefer mullet and pinfish. However, some anglers have reported having success with also cut bait like octopus, squid, and crabs. Other options include using Pilchards, Cigar Minnows, and Grunts. </p><p>For your equipment, it depends on where you are. In Florida, you’re required to use a circle hook when going bottom fishing. But some say that the standard equipment will do. Standard rod with a 40-pound line works but people have done well even with a 20-30 one. Make sure that your bait is hooked on well but with the barb still sticking out. </p><p>When going for the Gag Grouper, be prepared to wrestle with it. Once they snag your bait, they’ll want nothing but to drag their food back to the depths where they came from. They’ll try to run against the rocks to make sure they don’t get fished out. To avoid that, make sure the reel’s locked and don’t let it freewheel otherwise it’ll give them a chance to dive into a hole. To make it easier, some people advise keeping your rod low so it’s easier to just yank them out of the water.</p><p> </p><h2><span style="color:windowtext;"><strong>Gag Grouper Habitat and Distribution</strong></span></h2><p>Gag Groupers like staying in coastal waters with a lot of rocky structures. Some of their <i>preferred</i> rocky structures include rocky bottoms and reefs. They also like loitering near drop-off walls in the deep waters. But the younger Gag Groupers like staying more in the seabed.</p>
Balistes Capriscus<h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Grey Triggerfish (Balistes capriscus) Fish Description</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish, also referred to as the Leatherjacket, Leatherneck, or Taly, is a ray-finned fish.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">They primarily have a pale grey, greenish-grey, or yellowish-brown hue. Its body has three indistinct broad dark stripes, and a pale streak on its chin. The upper part of their eye is blue. There are occasionally some small blue spots and lines on the upper parts of its body and the dorsal fins and sometimes white spots and lines on the lower areas. The body color of the Grey Triggerfish fades a little over time as it gets older. </span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">To distinguish them from their species, the Grey Triggerfish has a small, beak-like mouth and by the tip of the snout, it has fleshy lips. Their eyes are far back, near the top of its head. For its body, it's rather laterally compressed and with tough, leather-like skin. The front dorsal fins have three spines, the first spine being stronger and longer in comparison to the other two. The second dorsal fin has 26-29 soft rays, and is the same shape and size as the anal fin below it, but has no spines and 23-26 soft rays. The pectoral fins of the Grey Triggerfish are small and rounded. And the caudal fins outer rays are large and long. They have large scales on their head and front of the body, and smaller, smoother scales on their hind.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Diet and Size</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish are carnivores. They consume prey such as crabs, shrimp, sea urchins, worms, and other invertebrates or smaller fish. They often pick at clams and other animals attached to corals, as they are known to wreak havoc on less than fortunate reef dwellers. </span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The Grey Triggerfish is a medium-sized fish that can grow to 24 in, but their average length is no longer than 17 in. And they can weigh up to 13 pounds.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Interesting Facts</strong></span></h2><ul><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">When the Grey Triggerfish feel threatened, they can slip into small crevices, using their distinct shape, and erect their dorsal fins to lock them into place, firmly wedging themselves in their hiding spot.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish have such sharp teeth, that they can use them to cut into preys with hard shells, like sea urchins and starfish.</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Smaller fish often follow Grey Triggerfish, because these fish are notably to wreak havoc on the lesser fortuned reef dwellers that the small fish can feast on the leftovers.</span></li></ul><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Fishing Techniques</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">As an angler, when fishing for a Grey Triggerfish, you’d best try bodies of water with hard bottoms, ledges, and reefs. They are often found in nearshore and offshore locations, in seaward reefs, bays and lagoons just about 180 ft. from the surface.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">This type of fish would go for almost any bait thrown towards its direction, but you can try squid because it sticks better onto the hooks in comparison to other baits. When using squid, a chunk that is about an inch wide would be good so it wouldn’t slip off when fishing. Since Grey triggerfish tend to nip at the bait before taking it in, unlike snapper fish, you can try appealing to their greed towards food by dropping your bait near other fish, like some snapper or grouper. So when the Grey Triggerfish see the others heading towards the bait, they’ll charge on out to steal it!</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">When you drop your baited hook to the bottom, (and remember, since Grey Triggerfish are located near the bottom, to use a 6 to 8 ounces heavy sinker,) reel it immediately to maintain the line tension, so you can feel even the softest of bites. Then when you feel a bite, start reel it in as fast as you can while keeping the rod stable.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"> </span></p><h2><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);"><strong>Habitat and Distribution</strong></span></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">Grey Triggerfish can be found in Florida, but also inhabit parts of the South and Western Atlantic Ocean. </span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">The Grey Triggerfish principally lives in shallow waters. Its native range goes from Nova Scotia and up to the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, Bermuda, and southwards to Argentina. They are often found in nearshore and offshore locations, in seaward reefs, rocky areas, bays, and lagoons just about 180 ft. from the surface.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(14,16,26);">As a result of the movement of water in the Gulf Stream, they may have crossed the Atlantic, around the British Isles, in the Mediterranean Sea, and off the coast of Angola.</span></p>
Scomberomorus Cavalla<h2><strong>King Mackerel (</strong><i><strong>Scomberomorus cavalla</strong></i><strong>) Fish Description</strong></h2><p>Also known as Spanish Mackerel or Kingfish, this migratory species belongs to the mackerel family specifically found in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. </p><p>What makes the King Mackerel striking are the small and vaguely visible, loosely attached scales on their entire body. Its dorsal fin is totally without color and usually folded back into a groove (same with the pelvic fins). Generally, King Mackerel are olive in color on the back parts, with a white underbelly, and rosy, iridescent sides. The smaller King Mackerel may have some brown to yellowish spots on the flanks, smaller than that of the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-mackerel">Atlantic Mackerel</a>. Interestingly, the teeth of King Mackerel are highly similar to that of the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/bluefish">Bluefish</a>. </p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel Diet and Size</strong></h2><p>As an opportunistic carnivore with a voracious appetite, King Mackerel have several choices on their food menu. Depending on the season, they may feast on <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/blue-runner">Blue Runner</a>, Northern Mackerel, Striped Anchovy, <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/squeteague">Weakfish</a>, Cutlassfish, Jack, Menhaden, and squid. </p><p>This fish is considered of medium size, typically weighing around 30 pounds; some King Mackerel caught weighed a little over 90 pounds. Females weigh more than males. For example, at 7 years old, a female King Mackerel can weigh 22 pounds, whereas the male is only half as heavy.</p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>Interesting Facts About the King Mackerel </strong></h2><ul><li>The sperm and eggs of King Mackerel are spread into the sea; they are fertilized by chance.</li><li>Fertilized eggs of King Mackerel hatch in less than a day!</li><li>King Mackerel started being marketed fresh only in 2005. Their grayish flesh has a high fat content.</li><li>Along with <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-goldeneye-tilefish">Tilefish</a>, Shark, and <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/swordfish">Swordfish</a>, King Mackerel should be avoided by children and pregnant women due to their high mercury content.</li><li>The King Mackerel is often mistaken for the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/atlantic-spanish-mackerel">Atlantic Spanish Mackerel</a> and <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/cero">Cero Mackerel</a>. To distinguish them, know that the last two species’ lateral aliens slope gradually from the gill’s top edge to the tail, whereas the King Mackerel’s stops mid-body.</li></ul><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel — Fishing Techniques</strong></h2><p>King Mackerel belong to the most sought-after gamefish in Texas to North Carolina. They are popular due to their speed which is matched only by the <a href="https://guidesly.com/fishing/fish-species/wahoo">Wahoo</a>, their distant relative. </p><p>The most common ways of capturing King Mackerel are by jigging, trolling, and using live or dead bait, spoons, and other artificial lures.</p><p>Commercial anglers use gear consisting of run-around gill nets. Recreational anglers typically troll using large planers, heavy tackle, and lures. </p><p>If you plan to use live bait, make sure to tie two hooks to a strong metal leader. The first hook (single/treble) must be attached to the live bait’s mouth and/or nose. The second hook (treble) must be put through the bait’s back or allowed to dangle. You must do these because King Mackerel are known to bite the rear section of a live bait.</p><h2> </h2><h2><strong>King Mackerel Habitat and Distribution</strong></h2><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/King_Mackerel_Heat_Map_c15f9805ba.webp" alt=""></figure><p>As a subtropical fish, King Mackerel are found mainly in the Atlantic Coast along the US. They are highly abundant in Brazil, especially Rio de Janeiro, and are also found in North Carolina. This fish also inhabits the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of Maine, the Bay of Bengal, and the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea.</p><p>King Mackerel are commonly found in depths ranging from 40 feet to 150 feet. The bigger King Mackerel are usually found inshore, particularly in harbors and inlets with waters as deep as 590 feet. They occur in waters with temperatures in the range of 68 to 84°F. </p>
Lutjanus Campechanus<h2><strong>Red Snapper (Lutjanus campechanus)</strong> </h2><h3><strong>Fish Description </strong></h3><p>Red Snapper can grow very large. They are pink to light red in color when they are young, and as they mature they turn red over most of their body. The lower area of their body is pale-white in color. </p><p>They are popular with recreational fishermen as well as commercial seafood markets and restaurants. Snappers are bottom dwellers that are a trophy catch for anglers.</p><p> </p><figure class="image"><a href="https://guidesly.com/search"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/Fish_Species_Guide_Click_Banner_087dadb714.png" alt=""></a></figure><h3><strong>Habitat and Distribution</strong></h3><p>The Red Snapper is commonly found on the Atlantic coast of the US and the Gulf of Mexico. They like water temperatures of 50-70 degrees. Juveniles are found inshore and muddy bottoms. Adult snappers are found mainly near structure in deep water. </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/Snapper_HeatMap%401600x_15a36ea8e6.png" alt="Red Snapper Habitat Region Heatmap"><figcaption>Red Snapper Map of Habitat</figcaption></figure><p>Red snapper is commonly found at the depth of 30 - 620 feet in the Gulf of Mexico and down the eastern coast of the US.</p><h3><strong>Size </strong></h3><p>Red snapper can grow to 3 feet and weigh 35 pounds or more, but the average size caught is 1-2 feet long and weighs less than 10 pounds. The world record is 50 lbs 4 oz. the monster was caught off Louisiana water in 1966. Their lifespan is more than 20 years. </p><h3><strong>Spawning</strong></h3><p>Larger, matured Red Snapper produces more eggs than the young ones. A 24-inch female snapper (about 8 years) produces a large number of eggs as 212 17-inch females (about 5 years), most of the red snapper caught in the Gulf today is around 4-6 years old. </p><p>Fertilized eggs drift to the surface and hatch in about one day. After just a month, the young fish settle out of the water column in shallow water, and as they grow older they move to a regulated habitat where they will mature and eventually move to the deeper Gulf waters of the bay. The spawning season is between May and October. </p><p>The females lay eggs in rocky and shallow regions or on coral reefs. Generally, the eggs hatch within a day, and the young one settles out of the water column in shallow waters. </p><h3><strong>Fishing Techniques - How to Catch Red Snapper</strong></h3><p>Red Snapper can be caught using rigs, manual reels, handline, and electric reels, all dressed with heavyweights and multiple hooks. Lure with cigar minnows or fresh squid; pigfish or live pinfish will land the biggest snapper. Other effective bait is octopus, live squid, and shrimp, followed by small natural baitfish in the area. Keep in mind that you need to take the baits down the bottom to where the Red Snapper settles. When fishing Red Snapper, don’t forget that they are true warriors They will give you a real fight when hooked. They will often run to cover or near debris, which can be entangled or even cut your line. </p><p>Snappers can also be caught fly fishing. Some anglers like to work chum in the snapper area and then fly fish to rising fish. But if snapper is near the surface, fly fishing is a great and exciting technique. Rig setup is an 11 - 13-weight fly line tipped with Clouser minnows and deceivers. The key is presenting the fly to the snapper naturally. As the fly floats back toward the snapper, strip the line as you would normally retrieve the fly. The snapper will attack the moving fly.</p><h3><strong>Red Snapper Good to Eat? </strong> </h3><p>Absolutely! Red Snapper is a fish that has a mild and nutty taste. It is delicious and a very popular fish for at home and in restaurants<span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(32,33,36);">. It is considered one of the most in-demand fish. </span>To really experience the true essence of Red Snapper's taste, it is important to cook it with minimal seasoning. A light seasoning of salt and pepper and a squeeze of lemon juice is enough to enhance its natural flavor. Whether baked or pan-fried, this fish tastes delicious when cooked in a straightforward manner. Its taste is one of the main reasons why Red Snapper is such a popular dish among seafood enthusiasts. The next time you eat Red Snapper, try to savor its unique taste by keeping the seasoning simple.</p><p>This tasty fish will not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides numerous health benefits. From improving heart health to aiding in weight loss, red snapper is full of essential nutrients that can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. </p><h3>Health Benefits of Red Snapper</h3><p>Red Snapper is a highly satisfying seafood that is not only an absolute delight to taste buds, but also a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for maintaining a healthy body and mind. In addition, Red Snapper is low in calories, high in protein, and low in saturated fats, making it an excellent choice for those who wish to maintain a healthy diet. It is rich in vitamins B12 and D, iron, and potassium, all of which are essential nutrients for a healthy life. As a result, consuming Red Snapper offers numerous health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, improving brain function and memory, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin and hair. When it comes to choosing a delicious and healthy seafood option, Red Snapper is undoubtedly an excellent choice.</p><p> </p>
Scomberomorus Maculatus<h2><strong>Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus) </strong></h2><p>Often found both coasts of Florida and the Gulf of Mexico, the Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus) is a favorite fishing target for both recreational and commercial fishers. It can be easily identified with its long, streamlined body, silvery color with a dark greenish top, and yellowish oval spots scattered on its sides. They are speedy swimmers and can often be seen in large groups or schools. They also migrate from the northern part of the Atlantic coast to as far south as Mexico during winter. They can, however, be found in pretty much every ocean in the planet.</p><p>Spanish Mackerels are carnivores and usually prey on prey mainly on herring, menhaden, sardines, mullet, needlefish, and anchovy and, sometimes, even on shrimp, crabs, and squid. On the other hand, same as their close relatives like tuna and other mackerels, they are preyed upon by dolphins, sharks, and of course, humans.</p><p>The Spanish Mackerel is a highly valued fish for both sports fishers and commercial fishers because of its tasty meat that can be cooked by grilling, frying, baking, and even by smoking. It’s also a popular fish in Japan and other countries as it can be eaten raw as sushi.</p><p> </p><h2><strong>Interesting Facts About Spanish Mackerel</strong></h2><ul><li>The biggest Spanish Mackerel ever caught measures a little over six feet long and weighs about one hundred and twenty pounds.</li><li>Angler Doug Buhagiar with the help of his brother caught the humongous fish on the beach on Fraser Island off Australia’s eastern Queensland coast.</li><li>Spanish Mackerels are one of the fastest swimmers in the ocean, clocking at about 5.5 meters per second on average.</li><li>They swim in large groups or schools that can stretch up to 20 miles.</li><li>They can live up to twenty-five years in the wild.</li><li>As with other mackerel species, Spanish Mackerels are often caught for food.</li><li>They can be cooked in various methods, including: baking, grilling, steaming, smoking, poaching, and frying.</li><li>The Spanish Mackerel is also a popular sushi fish.</li><li>They are a source of omega-3 fatty acids in human diet.</li><li>High human consumption meant high demand for the fish, thus, led to overfishing and a significant fish population decline over the past few decades.</li><li>Fishing restrictions were made to help repopulate oceans with this particular fish species.</li><li>Annual catch limits are divided between the commercial and recreational fishers in both the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.</li><li>Minimum size restrictions are also placed to provide the species time to mature and spawn.</li><li>Since the regulations, Spanish Mackerel populations have significantly improved.</li><li>Females can lay 500,000 to 1.5 million eggs throughout the spawning season.</li><li>Their eggs float in the water because they contain oily drops.</li><li>For fertilization, the eggs merge with sperm cells that are released by males.</li></ul><p> </p><h2><strong>Spanish Mackerel Average Speed and Size</strong></h2><p>Clocking in on average at 5.5 meters per second, the Spanish mackerel is one of the fastest and most agile fish species in the ocean. They can also mature and grow really fast, reaching their full maturity in just two years. An adult measures about one to two feet in length and weighs around eight to eleven pounds. </p><p> </p><figure class="image image-style-side"><img src="https://guidesly-assets.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/content/Atlantic_Spanish_Mackerel_Heat_Map_1600x_edb4bab39c_1_aa05948f23.webp"></figure><h2><strong>Where to Find Them</strong></h2><p> </p><p>Many successful anglers have caught Spanish Mackerels by trolling or drifting on boats. Others have also been successful fishing on piers, jetties, and beaches by casting spoons and jigs and live-bait fishing. They can often be found in large schools swimming near the surface of the water. Although, this fish live mainly in tropical and subtropical waters, it can sometimes be seen in temperate waters as well.</p><p> </p><h2><strong>Spanish Mackerel Fishing Tips</strong></h2><p>If you’re going to be fishing offshore, look around structures in the open waters where schools of Spanish Mackerels are often seen. Just make sure to drift to the area where they are so as not to spook the school of fish away. For nearshore fishing, again check around structures in open waters, including flats and oyster bars. In a warmer weather, schools are often spotted closer to shores. So you might want to stay on land and fish in the surf, piers, and jetties when the water warms.</p><p>As for the gears you’re going to need, here are some of our recommendations:</p><p><strong>Equipment</strong></p><ul><li>Light to medium spinning tackle</li><li>Medium 7 to 8-foot rod</li><li>12-20 lb. braided line</li><li>1/0-2/0 circle hook that matches bait size</li></ul><p><strong>Lure</strong></p><ul><li>Heavy metal lures, shiny spoons</li><li>Plastics with jig heads</li></ul><p><strong>Bait</strong></p><ul><li>Live shrimp and fish such as sardines, minnows, mullet, and greenbacks</li><li>Cut bait such as squid</li></ul><h2>Is Spanish Mackerel Good to Eat?</h2><p><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);">When it comes to delicious fish that is versatile in flavor and texture, Spanish Mackerel is at the top of the list. This fish is a great ingredient to cook with and offers many different options for tasty dishes. It has a mild flavor that is not too fishy. When cooking with Spanish Mackerel, it can be grilled, baked, or even smoked, which makes it an excellent choice for different cuisines. The texture of this fish is also quite unique, as it is both flaky and tender at the same time. Whether you want to fry it up for a crispy meal or use it in a stew, there are many possibilities when it comes to preparing Spanish Mackerel. </span></p><p><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:hsl(0, 0%, 0%);">Besides being a delicious and versatile fish, Spanish mackerel is also a healthy option for your diet. It is packed with essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which can improve heart health and provide energy. </span></p>
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