Best months
May–November
Where
- Open sea
- Harbours & piers
Best time
- Dawn
- Dusk
Usual size
20–35 cm
General guidance for the Mediterranean and the nearby Atlantic; local seasons can differ.
How to catch it
Methods
- Feathers / sabiki
- Float
- Spinning (lures)
Baits
- Fish strips
- Shrimp
Lures
- Feathers / sabiki
- Metal jigs
- Spoons
The angler's tip
The Atlantic mackerel of Moroccan harbours: a sabiki or small spoon at dawn and dusk; once one bites, the shoal is there.
Easily confused with
Legal minimum size
We have no verified rule for your country yet. Check your local fisheries authority before keeping any fish.
About this fish
Atlantic chub mackerel, also known as tinker mackerel, is a pelagic schooling species of mackerel found in the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. It was originally thought to be a subspecies of the chub mackerel, Scomber japonicus.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to catch Atlantic chub mackerel?
The best months are May–November. Best time of the day: Dawn, Dusk.
What bait or lure works for Atlantic chub mackerel?
Fish strips, Shrimp · Feathers / sabiki, Metal jigs, Spoons · Feathers / sabiki, Float, Spinning (lures).
Related species
These are estimates, not guarantees. Always look at the sea yourself before going out, do not go alone and wear a life jacket.
