Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus)

Spanish Mackerel
(Scomberomorus maculatus)

The Spanish Mackerel, also known as Scomberomorus maculatus, is a type of migratory fish that can be found in the waters off the coast of Delaware. These fish have a distinct appearance, with a green back and silvery sides, and three rows of oval or elliptical yellow spots. The lateral line of the Spanish Mackerel curves downward from the upper end of the gill cover, near the caudal penduncle. The first dorsal fin of the fish is white in the back with a black edge that transitions to black up front.

Like bluefish, Spanish Mackerel have teeth designed for cutting, with a single row on each jaw. These fish are not recommended to be lipped when handling. Although bony to clean, Spanish Mackerel are delicious to eat.

  Spanish Mackerel have been more abundant along the surf fishing beaches in Delaware. They tend to follow bunker schools and mix in with bluefish schools during the summer. Fishing for Spanish Mackerel can be done by casting metal spoons, deadly dicks, or any shiny metal jigs, with a fast retrieve being necessary as they prefer fast food. This type of fishing is similar to fishing for albies in the surf or from a jetty. Additionally, the Indian River Inlet will often see Spanish Mackerel mixed with bluefish schools during incoming tides.

In Delaware, there is a creel limit of 15 fish per angler, with each fish needing to be at least 14 inches in length.