Species Facts
Science Name:
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Scomber japonicus
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Other Names:
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American mackerel, blue mackerel, greenback jack, chub mackerel
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Description
The body of the Pacific mackerel tapers at both ends, is rather elongate, and
somewhat compressed. The head is pointed and the mouth is large. The head is
dark blue, the back is dark blue with about 30 dark wavy lines, and the
undersides are silver green. The widely separated first and second dorsal fins
serve to distinguish Pacific mackerel from all of the other tuna-like fishes
that inhabit our waters, except for the frigate and bullet mackerel. Pacific
mackerel and bullet mackerel can be differentiated by counting the dorsal
finlets. Pacific mackerel typically have four to six, while bullet and frigate
mackerel have seven to eight finlets.
Where to Find
In the eastern Pacific from Chile to the Gulf of Alaska.
Habitat
Worldwide in temperate seas.
Feeding Habits
Larval, juvenile or small fishes appear to be the most important natural food of
Pacific mackerel, but there are times when they rely heavily on small
crustaceans. They feed upon squid to a lesser extent, and eat whatever other
bite-sized organisms they may encounter.
Tips for Fishing
Pacific mackerel have long been cast in the role of an intruder or nuisance fish
by most anglers, especially those seeking larger sportfish like yellowtail or
barracuda. Nevertheless, they have been the most frequently caught species on
hook and line in California waters in recent years. Known as a voracious,
indiscriminant feeder, Pacific mackerel will devour a live anchovy, engulf dead
cut bait, strike readily on lures and often on flies. When in a feeding frenzy
it has even been known to hit a piece of rag soaked in fish gurg. While it is
relatively small in size (3 pounds or 18 inches would be trophy size), it scores
high for power (ounce for ounce) and beauty. Pacific mackerel put up an
excellent fight against light tackle.