Spanish mackerel are formidable hunters. These streamlined fish are made for fighting. Don't hesitate to use a swimmer fish rigged live with a fine rod for maximum thrills.
Thin leaders are the key to success
After a fine braid with a diameter of 0.10 to 0.14 mm, ideally in 8 strands for better sensitivity, 2 m of discrete fluorocarbon leader are positioned. The leader should be fine, between 0.25 and 0.30 mm. The lure is connected to the fluorocarbon by a clip which gives it greater swimming freedom and makes it easy to change. The swimmer fish measures from 7 to 11 cm.
- Reel: 0.10 to 0.14 mm braid
- Lead: fluorocarbon 0.25 to 0.30 mm (1)
- Braid/fluorocarbon connection knot: "smooth" knot (2)
- Clasp: hangman's knot
- Swimming fish: jerkbait from 7 to 11 cm
A jerkbait-type bibbed swimming fish
Jerkbaits are equipped with a bib that moves from left to right during linear retrieve. Jerkbaits can also be retrieved with dry pulls that throw them off axis, imitating the swimming action of a wounded fish.
Rod, reel and braid
The 1.90 to 2.70 m rod should weigh 5 to 50 g and have a fast to moderate tip action. Reels in sizes 2,500 to 4,000 (depending on brand) weigh 250 to 350 g and contain at least 150 m of 0.10 to 0.14 mm braid.
Observe what mackerel eat
Look at the prey that mackerel regurgitate when they arrive at the boat and use a lure that resembles them (often anchovies or sardines).
