Pacific Mackerel

Oceans & Range: Eastern Pacific Ocean — from British Columbia south to Chile, most abundant off California and Baja California. A schooling, open-water species found from the surface to 300 feet. One of the most abundant fish in California coastal waters — forms massive schools that support the entire food web.

Preferred Water Temperature: 60°F–72°F. Follow warm water northward along the California coast in summer. Very common from Southern California south to Baja in summer and fall.

Size & Weight: Typically 0.5–2 lbs and 10–16 inches. Maximum approximately 6 lbs. World record: 6 lbs 12 oz. Fast, schooling fish that will hit virtually any small lure or bait. Outstanding live bait for Yellowtail, White Seabass, and large Halibut. Also excellent eating — rich, oily flesh.

Best Lures: Any small chrome jig, feather jig, or Sabiki rig dropped into a school produces fast action. Small spoons and spinners work well. Very easy to catch when schools are located near the surface.

Best Baits: Small pieces of squid or fish work well. Sabiki rigs with small hooks produce fast catches when used as bait for other species. Pacific Mackerel are outstanding live or dead bait for Yellowtail, Large Halibut, and White Seabass.