Spanish Mackerel
Saltwater Fish Species of The Gambia



Identification
Mackerel Types: West African Spanish Mackerel
Gambian Names: Dioun
Scientific Names: Scomberomorus tritor
General Catch Size: 5lb to 20lb
 

Best Baits: Trolling lures Rapala 2" to 3", Spoons, Spinners, small Herring Live Baits, Fish Strips.

Top Tips: Mackerel are fast swimming smash & grab merchants. 4cm to 6cm small rapala deep diver & floating lures can be trolled at 8-10 knots in open water when specifically targeting this species. It also often pays when trolling larger rapala CD18 lures for Barracuda to run smaller lures outside and behind your pattern as this will often pick out the Mackerel.

Alternatively, float-fished small live baits on light tackle over shallow reefs and around rocky outcrops & light spinning with small mepps & silver spoons around shoals of bait fish over shallow reefs & sandbars works well

A light 20lb to 30lb wire trace must be added as their teeth are razor sharp and will slice through mono-line.

When - All year-round

Recommended TACKLE

Rod: Light 12lb to 20lb - 7ft to 9ft boat rod for trolling lures, Light spinning outfits and bait casting rods for presenting small lures
Reel: Multiplier or Fixed Spool
Main Line: 10lb to 30lb Mono or braid / 20lb to 30lb wire trace and crimps
Hooks: 2/0, 3/0 single and treble hooks O'Shaunassey, Owner, Gamakatsu
Lures: Mepps, Rapala 2"/3" Deep Diver, Silver Spoons
   
     African Pompano
    Barracuda
    Guinean Barracuda
    Butterfish
    Captain Fish (Threadfin)
    Cassava      
    Jacks
    Ladyfish
    Nine-Bone
    Shark
    Snappers
    Spanish Mackerel
                                   Rays
                                   Tarpon

Mark Longster

SEE BOAT CHARTER PRICES