Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the first big mackerel run of the year. Just as the weather warms up in May, these silver torpedoes arrive in huge numbers along our coastlines, bringing with them some of the most fun, accessible fishing you’ll find anywhere.
I’ve been chasing these fish for over twenty years now, and I still get that same buzz when my rod doubles over with three or four feisty mackerel all fighting at once. Last year, a record 650,000 UK anglers targeted these fish, and it’s easy to see why – they’re aggressive feeders, put up a proper scrap on light gear, and make for fantastic eating if you’re into that sort of thing.
This guide pulls together everything I’ve learned about mackerel fishing over the years, along with the latest intel from my contacts up and down the coast. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you’ve been at it for decades, you should find something useful here. I’ll cover the rigs and tackle that actually work, the hotspots where I consistently find fish, and the tactics that can make the difference between a full bucket and going home empty-handed.
Best Rigs & Tackle
Budget range: £30-£75 depending on what you already have in your tackle box
Overview of Rig Types
Paternoster Rig
This is the go-to setup for most mackerel anglers, myself included. It’s basically a string of hooks attached to short snoods coming off your main line, with a weight at the bottom. The beauty of this rig is it lets you fish at different depths all at once – crucial when you’re not sure exactly where in the water column the fish are feeding.
I’ve found six hooks to be the sweet spot. Any more becomes a tangle-fest (especially with multiple fish on), any fewer and you’re not maximizing your chances. Space them about 12 inches apart, and you’re golden.
A quick tip from painful experience: when you hook multiple mackerel, don’t try to lift them straight out of the water unless you fancy replacing your rod tip. Tire them out a bit first, then bring them in steadily.
The classic mackerel catcher – just be careful not to hook your mate’s ear during the cast
Float Rig
When you see mackerel smashing into bait fish near the surface, it’s time to switch to a float rig. I learned this trick from an old pier regular in Brighton who absolutely hammered the mackerel while everyone else was catching the odd fish.
The setup is dead simple – sliding float, stopped at your desired depth, small weight below, and a short trace to a hook or spinner. This presentation is magic on those flat calm days when the fish are up top. The float not only shows you when you’ve got a bite but adds some casting weight and keeps everything tangle-free.
I much prefer this setup when fishing somewhere crowded like a popular pier – you’re less likely to hook the person next to you, which tends to make for a more pleasant day out.
Perfect for surface-feeding mackerel, and for avoiding the tangled mess that often comes with feathers
Ledger Rig
Most people don’t associate ledgering with mackerel fishing, but on bright, sunny days, these fish often go deeper to escape the light. This is when a simple ledger rig can outfish everything else.
The weight sits on the bottom with a flowing trace and hook above, allowing your bait to move naturally in the current. I was skeptical until a mate showed me this approach a few summers back – we were getting smashed while everyone else around us packed up and went to the pub.
This approach really comes into its own from steep shorelines or harbor walls where you can access deeper water. The weight provides stability in the current, while your bait or lure still gets plenty of movement to attract attention.
Recommended Gear
Rod: 10–12 ft Beachcaster
For shore fishing, a medium-action 10-12ft beachcaster is spot on. You need something with enough backbone to handle multiple fish but with a sensitive enough tip to feel those lightning-fast bites.
Don’t overthink this – I’ve caught mackerel on everything from specialist lure rods to old boat rods found in the back of my dad’s garage. That said, something with a casting weight of 2-4oz hits the sweet spot. The Shakespeare Cypry, Daiwa Seahunter and Penn Rampage ranges all offer decent options in the £40-60 bracket.
If you’re fishing from a pier or boat, you can get away with a shorter 7-9ft rod, which makes handling fish a lot easier.
Reel: 4000–5000 Size
A 4000-5000 size fixed-spool reel balances nicely with the rod lengths I’ve suggested. Make sure it has a smooth drag – mackerel aren’t exactly marlin, but they can pull surprisingly hard when you hook several at once.
I’ve had good results with reels in the £40-60 range like the Daiwa Ninja, Penn Fierce, and Shimano Beastmaster models. The main thing is to get something with a decent retrieval rate – mackerel respond to fast-moving lures, so a slow-cranking reel will hamper your chances.
One thing worth paying extra for is a sealed drag system, especially given the corrosive nature of saltwater. I learned this the hard way after ruining two reels in one season by neglecting to rinse them properly.
Line: 10–15 lb Braided + Fluorocarbon Trace
Braid is my go-to for mackerel fishing. The lack of stretch means you feel every bite and get a solid hook-set. I’ve settled on 15lb as the ideal strength after snapping off too many rigs with lighter line.
Always add a 2-3ft fluorocarbon trace in the 15-20lb range. It provides abrasion resistance against mackerel’s small but surprisingly sharp teeth and reduces visibility in clear water.
A safety tip I wish someone had told me years ago: check your line regularly for damage, especially after catching multiple fish or fishing near rocks. Few things are more frustrating than losing a good rig to a preventable break-off.
Terminal Tackle & Accessories
Clips, Swivels, Beads
Don’t skimp on swivels – cheap ones seize up after a few sessions and create a nightmare of line twist. Size 7-10 barrel swivels have never let me down for mackerel rigs.
I’m a big fan of snap links or Gemini clips for quick rig changes. When the tide’s running and the fish are feeding, the last thing you want is to be fumbling around tying knots with cold fingers.
As for the famous “mackerel feathers” or “sabiki rigs,” they’re absolutely deadly. These pre-made lures with multiple hooks dressed with colored materials are mackerel magnets. That said, I often make my own using different colors to match what the fish seem to prefer on the day. White, red, blue, and luminous green have all had their moments in the spotlight.
Hook Sizes (#1–#4)
For mackerel, sizes #1 to #4 work a treat. Going larger reduces your hook-up rate, any smaller and they tend to bend out with bigger fish or when you’ve got multiple mackerel on at once.
Aberdeen or baitholder patterns are perfect for natural baits, while sabiki-style hooks are the business for feather rigs.
I’ve become a convert to chemically sharpened hooks in recent years – they might cost a bit more, but the improvement in hook-up rates more than justifies the expense. If you’re on a budget, a small hook sharpening stone is a worthwhile investment – dull hooks mean missed fish.
Top 5 Coastal Hotspots
Interactive Map Embed
[Google My Maps – UK Mackerel Hotspots]
Beachy Head, East Sussex
After trying dozens of marks along the south coast, I keep coming back to Beachy Head. The dramatic chalk cliffs aren’t just for impressive Instagram shots – they create deep water close to shore where mackerel hunt. Park up at Cow Gap (£4 all day) and follow the path down to the beach – your legs will hate you on the way back up, but your fish bag will thank you.
I’ve had my best results here from about 2 hours before high tide until an hour after, especially on evening tides when mackerel move in close to feed on baitfish. The easterly facing shore means it fishes well in westerly winds, which is handy given how often it blows from that direction in summer.
The white cliffs provide shelter from southwesterly winds, making this spot fishable when other marks are blown out. During summer evenings, the setting sun lights up the water beautifully, giving you perfect visibility for spotting feeding shoals near the surface.
A local tip that’s served me well: focus on areas where the seabed changes from sand to pebbles – these transition zones often concentrate baitfish and the predators that follow them.
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Cromer Pier, Norfolk
If scrambling down cliff paths isn’t your idea of fun, Cromer Pier offers excellent mackerel fishing with proper facilities. For £7 (available from the gift shop), you get a day ticket to the designated fishing areas. The pier extends into relatively deep water, allowing you to reach mackerel shoals even at low tide.
I like to fish here with the family – there’s a cafe for when the kids get bored, proper toilets, and a bait shop on-site. You can even hire gear if you’re traveling light.
What many anglers miss is that the pier’s 150-year history has created an artificial reef effect underneath, with the supporting structure attracting baitfish that in turn draw in predators. The pier head consistently produces the best catches, particularly on the seaward side where tidal currents are strongest.
A word to the wise – get there at first light if you can. By mid-morning in peak season, you’ll be sharing the pier with crowds of tourists, which makes fishing a bit more challenging. Early mornings not only give you peace and quiet but typically produce the day’s best catches.
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Tenby North Beach, Wales
I stumbled across this spot by accident during a family holiday and ended up fishing every day of the trip. Tenby’s golden sands and gradually shelving seabed create ideal mackerel territory during high tide. The North Beach car park (£5.50 all day) gives easy access, and the best spot is near the harbor wall.
What makes Tenby special is the mixed fishing – alongside mackerel, you’ll often catch garfish and the occasional bass. The beach’s westerly aspect makes it most productive on calm evenings or when the wind has an easterly component.
The medieval harbor walls create a natural feeding channel that concentrates baitfish and predators. Time your visit for the two hours before high tide when the incoming water pushes mackerel closer to shore. The rocky areas around Goscar Rock (that prominent island just offshore) become accessible at mid to low tide and offer excellent casting platforms – though watch your footing on the slippery rocks.
One of the best things about Tenby is that it’s a proper seaside town with great facilities, making it ideal for family fishing trips. And here’s a tip the locals showed me – several harbor restaurants will cook your catch for a small fee. There’s nothing quite like catching mackerel in the morning and eating them for lunch.
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Porthcawl Harbour, South Wales
This unpretentious harbor wall has produced some of my biggest mackerel over the years. The wall provides a perfect vantage point for targeting them as they chase sprats around the harbor entrance. Free roadside parking is available along the esplanade, which is a rarity at popular fishing spots these days.
I’ve found westerly winds to be ideal here – they push baitfish toward the harbor, creating a feeding bonanza. One of the few spots where night fishing for mackerel can be productive, thanks to the harbor lights attracting baitfish after dark.
The outer wall drops quickly into deep water, allowing access to bigger, deeper-holding fish even at low tide. If the harbor isn’t producing, try the rocky shoreline east of the harbor mouth, which features numerous gullies and submerged reefs that act as natural fish highways.
The marina’s 24-hour access and lighting make this an excellent choice if you’ve got daytime commitments – I’ve had some cracking sessions here after work, arriving at 7pm and heading home with a full bag by 9pm.
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Newhaven Beach, East Sussex
My local patch and a consistent producer throughout the mackerel season. The shallow waters and mixed ground make it ideal for beginners and families. The west beach offers easy access and comfortable fishing, with the harbor arm providing shelter on windy days.
Pop into Tony’s Tackle Shop on the seafront for fresh bait and local knowledge – Tony’s been fishing these waters for decades and usually knows exactly where they’re biting. Free parking along Fort Road is a bonus that keeps me coming back.
What makes Newhaven special is its position where the River Ouse meets the English Channel, creating fertile feeding grounds. The harbor breakwaters funnel tidal currents, concentrating baitfish and creating a natural feeding station. This spot really shines during spring tides when the stronger currents bring in larger shoals.
Unlike many marks that only produce at specific tide stages, Newhaven offers action throughout the tidal cycle, making it perfect when you’ve only got a short window to fish. I’ve had good catches here at all states of tide, though the first three hours of the flood tend to be most productive.
If you have time after fishing, the views across to Seaford Head make for a nice clifftop walk, and there are some decent pubs in the old town for a well-earned pint afterward.
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Baits & Tactics
Natural Baits
Strips of Mackerel / Sandeel / Squid
Fresh strips cut from mackerel, sandeel, or squid remain among the most effective natural baits. Cut thin strips about 2-3 inches long and 1/2 inch wide to mimic small baitfish. The natural oils released create an attractive scent trail, while the silvery flesh catches the light as it moves through the water.
For maximum effectiveness, ensure your strips are cut from the freshest bait possible. The oily belly section of mackerel makes particularly appealing bait strips, with the silvery skin left intact to provide maximum visual attraction. When using strips, employ a gentle jigging motion during retrieve – short 1-2 foot lifts followed by a pause allows the strip to flutter naturally in the current, mimicking injured baitfish.
Many experienced anglers carry a small spray bottle containing fish oil or tuna juice to give their natural baits an extra scent boost, particularly effective in colored water or when mackerel seem hesitant to commit to artificial lures.
Mackerel Feathers – DIY Approach
While pre-made feather rigs are readily available, making your own can be both economical and more effective. Here’s a step-by-step guide to tying your own mackerel feather rig:
Cut a 5-6 foot length of 30-40lb fluorocarbon or monofilament
Tie a strong swivel at one end for attachment to your mainline
Measure 12 inches from the swivel and tie in your first hook using a snell knot
Add a small colored bead above the hook for attraction
Attach 5-10 strands of flashabou or holographic material
Add 3-5 strands of colored feather (white, red, green, or blue work well)
Repeat steps 3-6 at 12-inch intervals, creating 5-6 hooks in total
At the bottom end, attach another swivel and your chosen weight
This DIY approach allows you to customize colors and hook spacing based on local conditions and preferences. Many anglers find that mixing colors (perhaps two white, two red, one green, one blue) produces the best results as it offers mackerel different options to target.
Lures & Spinners
Soft Plastics, Metal Jigs
When mackerel are being selective, single lures can outfish traditional feather rigs. Small metal jigs (20-40g) in silver or blue/silver create vibrations that trigger aggressive responses. Their weight allows for long casting distances and quick retrieval speeds – perfect for covering water efficiently when searching for feeding shoals.
Soft plastic sandeel or fish imitations in the 3-5 inch range, rigged on a 15-25g jighead, can be deadly when worked through a feeding shoal. The lifelike action and profile trigger predatory instincts even in cautious fish. For maximum effectiveness, choose colors that match local baitfish – silver/blue for sprats and sandeels, pink/white for prawns, or chartreuse when water clarity is poor.
For rocky areas, consider weedless-rigged soft plastics to reduce snags without compromising hook-up rates. The flexibility to fish these lures at various depths and speeds makes them incredibly versatile for adapting to changing conditions throughout your session.
Retrieve Speed: Fast “Wind-and-Stop”
Mackerel are active predators that respond to quick movements. A fast retrieve with occasional pauses often triggers reaction strikes. The “wind-and-stop” technique – rapid cranking interspersed with brief pauses – mimics the erratic movement of injured baitfish and can trigger aggressive feeding responses.
The ideal retrieve speed varies with conditions, but as a starting point, aim to bring your lures through the water fast enough that you can just feel them vibrating. On brightening days, increase your retrieve speed as mackerel become more active. In cooler conditions or early/late in the season, a slightly slower but still purposeful retrieve often produces better results.
<iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/mackerelrigtutorial” title=”Mackerel Retrieve Speed Demonstration” frameborder=”0″ allow=”accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture” allowfullscreen></iframe>
This 30-second demonstration shows exactly how fast to work your lures for maximum effect.
Seasonal Tweaks
Tide and Weather Effects on Bait Selection
Adjusting your approach to tide and weather conditions can dramatically improve results:
Bright, calm days: Use smaller, less flashy lures and fish deeper
Overcast or colored water: Opt for larger, brighter lures with more movement
Strong tides: Heavier weights and more streamlined rigs keep your presentation in the strike zone
During spring tides (characterized by greater range between high and low), the increased water movement stirs up more food and generally produces more active feeding. Focus on areas where tidal flow is funneled or concentrated – headlands, harbor entrances, and narrow channels between obstacles. By contrast, during neap tides, fish tend to be more scattered, requiring more mobility and searching to locate shoals.
Water temperature significantly impacts mackerel behavior. In the early season (May) when water temperatures are still rising, focus on shallower areas that warm quickly and fish during the warmest part of the day. As summer progresses and temperatures peak, dawn and dusk periods become more productive as fish seek comfort in slightly cooler conditions.
Ebb vs. Flood Fishing
While mackerel can be caught on any tide, the first few hours of the flooding tide often produce the best results as predators move inshore with the advancing water. During spring tides, the stronger currents concentrate baitfish and create feeding opportunities, especially around headlands and harbor entrances.
On steep shorelines with deep water close in, the last two hours of the ebb tide can be particularly productive as the retreating water concentrates baitfish and forces them into deeper channels where mackerel wait in ambush. When fishing river mouths or estuaries, the ebbing tide often brings nutrients and food particles that attract baitfish and their predators.
How to Tie a Mackerel Feather Rig
Creating your own feather rig allows you to customize colors and hook spacing for local conditions. Follow these steps:
Gather materials
5-6 feet of 30-40lb fluorocarbon or monofilament line
6 hooks (size #1-4)
Colored beads (red, green, white)
Flashabou or holographic material
Colored feathers (white, red, blue)
2 barrel swivels
Lead weight (2-4oz depending on conditions)
Prepare the main line
Cut your fluorocarbon to length (about 6 feet)
Tie a strong barrel swivel to one end using a Palomar knot
Attach the hooks
Measure 12 inches from the swivel
Create a small loop in the line
Feed the hook through and tie a secure snell knot
Slide a colored bead up to the hook eye
Add the dressing
Cut 5-10 strands of flashabou (about 1.5 inches long)
Tie these to the hook shank just behind the eye
Add 3-5 strands of colored feather
Secure with a small drop of superglue
Complete the rig
Repeat step 3-4 at 12-inch intervals, adding 5-6 hooks in total
At the bottom end, tie another swivel
Attach your lead weight to this bottom swivel
Test and adjust
Cast and retrieve to check the action
Ensure all hooks and dressings move freely
Weekly Catch Reports & Forecast
Latest UK Mackerel Highlights
The past week has seen exceptional mackerel action across the UK coastline. Brighton Marina reported outstanding catches with anglers averaging 20+ fish per session, with best results coming 2 hours after high tide. The fish size is notably larger than last season, with several specimens approaching the 2lb mark.
Weymouth’s Stone Pier continues its reputation as a mackerel hotspot, producing consistent sport with fish to 1.5lbs, particularly on evening tides. The relatively deep water accessible from the pier end allows anglers to intercept feeding shoals regardless of tide height.
Scottish east coast venues are now seeing the first major shoals of the season, with Eyemouth anglers enjoying limit catches on metal lures. Water temperatures around Scotland have finally reached the critical threshold (approximately 12°C) that triggers the mackerel’s northward migration.
Environmental factors appear optimal for continued good fishing through the coming weeks. Baitfish populations (particularly sprats and sandeels) are abundant along southern and western coastlines, providing the foundation for excellent predator fishing. Water clarity remains good despite recent rainfall, with visibility averaging 2-3 meters in most areas – perfect for visual feeders like mackerel.
Cleaning & Quick Recipes
How to Clean & Fillet Mackerel
Properly cleaning and filleting mackerel ensures the best flavor and texture. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time:
Rinse the fish under cold water 🚿 – Remove any surface slime and loose scales
Cut behind the gills down to the backbone ✂️ – Use a sharp knife and cut at a slight angle
Cut along the belly from head to tail 🔪 – Be careful not to pierce the intestines
Remove the innards and rinse the cavity 🧽 – Pay special attention to cleaning the blood line along the backbone
For fillets, cut along the backbone from head to tail on both sides 🐟 – Use firm pressure to keep the knife against the bones
Remove the rib bones by cutting just under them with a flexible knife 🔪 – A slight angle helps separate the meat from the ribcage
For the cleanest results, use a dedicated fish preparation board and a sharp, flexible fillet knife. Keeping your catch in an ice slurry immediately after catching will make cleaning easier and preserve the flavor. Rinse fillets in cold saltwater rather than tap water to maintain texture and flavor.
Remember that fresh mackerel deteriorates quickly – ideally, clean and cook your catch within 24 hours. If storing, pat fillets dry, wrap in waxed paper, then seal in an airtight container and refrigerate for no more than 2-3 days. For longer storage, vacuum-sealed and frozen mackerel remains good for up to three months.
2 Simple Recipes
Grilled Mackerel with Lemon & Herbs
Ingredients:
Fresh mackerel fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon (juice and zest)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, thyme)
Salt and pepper
Method:
Mix olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, and chopped herbs
Brush mixture over fillets and season with salt and pepper
Grill skin-side down for 3-4 minutes
Flip carefully and cook for another 2 minutes
Serve immediately with lemon wedges
The high oil content in mackerel makes it perfect for grilling, creating a crispy skin while keeping the flesh moist and tender. This simple preparation lets the natural flavor shine while adding brightness with citrus and herbs. For an extra dimension, add a pinch of smoked paprika or a drizzle of honey to the marinade.
For perfect results every time, ensure your grill is properly preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. The fish is done when it flakes easily with a fork but is still slightly translucent in the center – overcooked mackerel becomes dry and loses its delicate flavor.
Mackerel Ceviche
Ingredients:
Fresh mackerel fillets, skinned and cubed
3 limes (juice)
1 red onion, finely diced
1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
Fresh coriander, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper
Method:
Place mackerel in a glass bowl and cover with lime juice
Refrigerate for 30 minutes until fish turns opaque
Drain half the lime juice, add remaining ingredients
Mix gently and serve with tortilla chips or on toast
This no-cook preparation relies on citric acid to “cook” the fish, resulting in a fresh, vibrant dish perfect for summer days. The acidity of the lime balances perfectly with mackerel’s richness. For best results, ensure the fish is very fresh and cut into uniform pieces of about 1cm for even curing.
Safety tip: While ceviche is traditionally made with raw fish “cooked” in acid, the lime juice doesn’t kill all potential parasites. For complete safety, you can briefly blanch the mackerel cubes in boiling water for 30 seconds before proceeding with the recipe, which won’t significantly affect the final texture or flavor.
Conclusion & Call to Action
The May-June mackerel run offers some of the most accessible and enjoyable sea fishing of the year. Whether you’re after the thrill of bent rods, the satisfaction of sustainable harvesting, or simply an excuse to spend time on our beautiful coastlines, mackerel fishing delivers on all fronts. The techniques and locations we’ve shared will get you started, but part of the joy is developing your own approach.
For beginners, mackerel fishing provides the perfect entry point to sea angling – with minimal gear investment, high catch rates, and simple techniques, success is almost guaranteed. For experienced anglers, the challenge comes in refining tactics to consistently catch the largest specimens or in experimenting with ultra-light tackle for maximum sport.
Perhaps most importantly, mackerel represent a truly sustainable seafood choice when caught recreationally with rod and line. By targeting these plentiful fish during their seasonal abundance and taking only what you’ll consume, you’re participating in one of the most environmentally friendly forms of harvesting wild protein.
Share your catches and adventures on Instagram with the hashtag #MackerelTimeUK – we feature the best shots in our monthly gallery and the most impressive catch wins a tackle voucher! Tag us @fishingtime_uk and let’s create a community showcase of the season’s highlights.
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Have questions or want to share your own tactics? Join the conversation in our Sea Fishing Q&A Forum where our community of anglers is always ready to help. Locals often post real-time updates about shoal movements during the season – invaluable information that can make the difference between a blank session and a memorable catch.
For those looking to expand their sea fishing horizons beyond mackerel, check out our comprehensive Guide to UK Sea Fishing which covers techniques and target species for every season. And if you’re in the market for new gear, our detailed Gear Reviews provide honest, field-tested evaluations of the latest tackle.
Remember – mackerel are not just fantastic sport but a sustainable, healthy food source. Please take only what you’ll eat and follow local conservation guidelines to ensure these magnificent fish remain abundant for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is the best mackerel fishing in the UK?
A: The south and west coasts generally offer the most consistent mackerel fishing, with Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and Sussex being particular hotspots. That said, mackerel migrate around most of the British coastline, so during peak season (May-September), good fishing can be found nationwide. Structures like piers, harbor walls, and rocky headlands that provide access to deeper water typically produce the best results.
Q: What tide is best for mackerel fishing?
A: The flooding (incoming) tide typically provides the best mackerel fishing, particularly the first 2-3 hours as the tide begins rising. This brings fresher, oxygenated water inshore and often coincides with increased feeding activity. Spring tides, with their stronger currents, generally outfish neap tides by concentrating baitfish around structural features. However, mackerel can be caught on any tide, and local factors often influence the prime feeding times at specific marks.
Q: When is mackerel season in the UK?
A: The main mackerel season runs from May through September, with peak activity usually occurring in June and July. Southern coasts see the first arrivals in late April or early May, with the shoals gradually moving northward as water temperatures increase. In mild years, the season can extend into October, particularly in the southwest. Weather and water temperature significantly influence the timing, with 12°C typically being the threshold that triggers their inshore migration.
Q: What is the best bait for mackerel?
A: Mackerel are primarily visual hunters, making shiny, moving lures more effective than static baits. Traditional feather rigs with 5-6 hooks dressed with colored flashabou material are the classic choice. Metal lures (20-40g silver spinners or jigs) and soft plastic sandeel imitations also produce excellent results. If using natural bait, fresh strips of mackerel, squid, or sandeel work well. The key is movement and flash – retrieve at a brisk pace with occasional pauses to trigger the predatory response.
Q: What is the UK size limit for mackerel?
A: There is currently no minimum landing size (MLS) for recreational anglers targeting mackerel in UK waters, though this is subject to change with evolving conservation measures. However, responsible anglers follow the principle of taking only mature fish (generally 30cm/12 inches or larger) and limiting their catch to personal consumption needs. Commercial fisheries face different restrictions, with specific quotas and management measures in place to ensure sustainability.
Q: Can you fish for mackerel at night?
A: While mackerel are predominantly daylight feeders relying heavily on sight to hunt, they can be caught during darkness, particularly in areas with artificial lighting like harbors, piers, and marinas. The lights attract plankton, which draws in baitfish, followed by predators like mackerel. Brightly colored lures with lots of flash and movement work best for night fishing. Areas with strong tidal flow near illuminated structures offer the best chances for after-dark success.
