MACK ATTACK !!!!

Capt. Keith Tomlinson
November 8, 2010
Hernando Beach - Saltwater Fishing Report

This is the time of year that our area of the Nature Coast is invaded by a strong fighting toothy critter known as the Spanish Mackerel. These fish are a blast to catch on light tackle and are great table fare. Some people will not eat mackerel but if they are cleaned and cooked properly, they make a great meal. Spanish Mackerel have Omega-3 fatty acids which are the polyunsaturated fatty acids that provide huge health benefits.
There are many techniques anglers use to catch Spanish mackerel. I prefer to use live green backs under a cork because thats what they primarily feed on. Our area has a ton of bait out there right now so anchor up where you see the birds diving, chum up the bait, and with just a few throws of your cast net you will have enough bait for the day. Use a 2/0 long shank hook with a small light steel leader to prevent cut offs. Another option is any lure that resembles the green backs. Silver spoons or Mirro-dines by Mirrolure are great options.
Spanish mackerel are one of the easiest fish in the gulf to clean. Cut the fillet from the body like any other fish. Leave the skin on but remove the blood line from the center of the fillet. To do this just run your knife down each side of the center line down to the skin but not through the skin. Pull the center blood line out like a zipper and your ready to grill.
I prefer these fish done on the grill. Place foil down on the grill and put it to med/high heat. Place the fillets skin side down. I melt a 1/4 stick of butter, a scoop of minced garlic, and a few tablespoons of hot sauce in a cup and frequently baste the fish as it cooks. When the fillets are well done, the meat is easily removed from the skin. Place your mackerel on a bed of yellow rice with a side of black beans and enjoy!
They key to mackerel is to only catch what you plan to eat. This fish does not freeze well. If you end up with to much fish I recommend smoking them and making a fish dip that will last all week.

Good luck out there and tight lines!

Capt. Keith Tomlison
Bulldog Fishin Charters
www.bulldogfishin.com
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