Chub Mackerel

Habitat

Coastal pelagic fish of the Mediterranean and Atlantic, from the surface to about 250 m over the shelf. The most common mackerel of the eastern Mediterranean, often under harbour lights and along breakwaters.

Behavior

Fast schooling fish that chases small fish, plankton and squid, often in mixed schools with horse mackerel. Bites eagerly at dawn, dusk and under lights. Told apart from the Atlantic mackerel by the dark spots on its silver belly.

Best techniques

• Sabiki rigs from piers and breakwaters
• Small metal jigs and casting spoons
• Float fishing with sardine strips under lights
• Light spinning at dawn when schools break the surface