Overview
Grey mackerel, or broad-barred mackerel, school along tropical headlands, islands and shoals where big tidal flow concentrates bait.
They average larger than school mackerel and pull far harder, often stripping 100 m on the first run.
They are a commercially important species and subject to specific limits across northern jurisdictions.
Where to find them
- ▸Headlands and island points with strong tidal current.
- ▸Shoals rising from 30 m to 12 m.
- ▸Pressure edges on the run-out tide.
- ▸Under working birds on tropical open water.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 7' spin rated 10–15 kg.
- ▸Line: 30–50 lb braid with 60 lb fluorocarbon and a short wire trace.
- ▸Lures: 40–85 g metal slugs, 120 mm minnows, live fusiliers or mullet.
Tips from the water
- ▸Fish the run-out tide on the down-current side of a headland.
- ▸Slow-troll a live bait behind the boat while casting metals.
- ▸Bleed and ice instantly — the flesh degrades fast in tropical heat.
Regulations
Size, bag and possession limits differ between states and can change each season. Check the current rules with your state fisheries authority before keeping a fish.