Tampa Bay, Florida, is a prime fishing destination, offering some of the best opportunities for targeting Spanish and king mackerel. Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting started, these fast, aggressive fish provide an exciting challenge. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mackerel fishing around Tampa Bay, from the best times to fish to the gear and techniques you’ll need to succeed.
Why Fish for Mackerel?
Mackerel are prized for their speed, agility, and fight when hooked. Spanish mackerel are common throughout the bay, while king mackerel (or “kingfish”) are more often found offshore but migrate closer inshore during certain times of the year. These fish are not only fun to catch but also delicious when prepared fresh.
Mackerel are also a sport fish. There are numerous mackerel tournaments around the Gulf, in the Florida Keys, and up the East Coast. If you’re looking to put your mackerel fishing skills to the test against other top anglers in the area, join in the fun of The Suncoast Kingfish Classic and Old Salt’s King of the Beach tournaments. Both of these local tournaments take place this coming April.
Best Times to Fish for Mackerel
Mackerel are highly migratory and follow seasonal patterns. Here’s when you can expect to find them:
- Spring (March-May): A prime season for Spanish and king mackerel as they migrate northward along Florida’s Gulf Coast.
- Fall (September-November): Another peak season when mackerel return south for the winter.
- Summer & Winter: Spanish mackerel may still be present, but kingfish generally move to deeper waters.
Where to Fish for Mackerel around Tampa Bay
Mackerel are often found in areas with strong tidal flows, baitfish schools, and structure. Some of the best spots include:
- Skyway Fishing Pier: A popular shore-based location with access to deep water.
- Egmont Key: Known for its rich baitfish populations, attracting large numbers of mackerel.
- Shipping Channels, Offshore Springs, Shipwrecks & Artificial Reefs: These structures hold bait and draw in mackerel.
- Beachfronts & Nearshore Waters: During peak migration times, mackerel can be caught just off the beaches.
Tackle and Gear for Mackerel Fishing
Since mackerel have sharp teeth and are aggressive fighters, having the right gear is essential:
- Rod & Reel: A medium-light to medium spinning setup with a fast action tip or size 25 to 30 conventional reel paired to a 7’ to 7’ 6” rod is ideal.
- Line: 25lb braided or monofilament line with a fluorocarbon or light wire leader to prevent bite-offs.
- Lures & Bait:
- Live bait: Blue Runners, Ladyfish, Cigar Minnows, and Mullet work great.
- Artificial lures: Planers w/Spoons, Lipped Diving Plugs, and fast-retrieved jigs mimic baitfish and trigger bites.
Techniques for Catching Mackerel
- Casting & Retrieving: Use a high-speed retrieve with spoons or plugs to mimic fleeing baitfish.
- Drifting & Trolling: Trolling small spoons or live bait at 4-6 knots is effective for covering water and locating fish.
- Chumming: Tossing live or cut bait into the water can bring mackerel close to your boat or pier.
Regulations & Conservation
Before heading out, be sure to check Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations, as they can change. As of recent guidelines:
- Spanish mackerel: Minimum size of 12 inches fork length, with a daily bag limit of 15 per angler.
- King mackerel: Minimum size of 24 inches fork length, with a daily bag limit of 3 per angler.
Boats For Mackerel Fishing
When fishing inside Tampa Bay, around Egmont Key, or in near shore Gulf waters; Everglades Boats’ 253 CC and 273 CC hybrid center console boats are the perfect all around platform for the shallower bay waters and Gulf chop.
When venturing further offshore, Everglades’ and Edgewater’s center console lines of boats boast deep vee hulls and high gunwales to keep you comfortable, safe and dry. Both boat brands offer fishing amenities including livewells, fish boxes, and rod holders while also providing creature comforts to keep your crew comfortable during the run offshore.
For a strictly fishing boat that’s more utilitarian with no shortage of rod holders, fishing features, and just enough comfort to keep the crew happy without sacrificing fishing space and functionality; check out Invincible’s lines of Open Fisherman center consoles and Power Catamaran center consoles.
Final Thoughts
Mackerel fishing in Tampa Bay offers action-packed excitement and a chance to land some of the fastest fish in the Gulf. Whether you’re casting from shore, trolling near reefs, or targeting schools in the open bay, mackerel provide an unforgettable fishing experience. Grab your gear, head out to the water, and enjoy one of Tampa Bay’s most thrilling angling adventures!
