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Originally Posted by Leif
The Mackerel fishing is around the corner, and a few Sponsor boats are targeting these little gems this winter. Now is the time to get ready so you can take advantage of this great fishing.
Recently I have been receiving some questions on Mackerel fishing and rigs used so I thought I would do a quick post to show what I have been using. All comments additions and other recommendations are welcome.
While Mackerel fishing is relatively simple some methods and rigs do work better than others at times. So keep your eyes peeled and ask the mates as well.
Here are a couple of pictures of some productive Mackerel rigs and some material recommendations so you can make your own.
For the rigs: 3-5 hook Mackerel teaser rig. I like the "Fire Cracker" type rigs. They are easy to make and very flashy. I find these the most productive although the Red surgical tubing rigs work very well. Both can be purchased "ready made".
Use a 6-10 oz sinker to get the rig down to the bottom. Mackerel will often hit on the way down as well and may be found at different depths.(the mates will help you with the proper weight. If it is a fast drift you will need a heavier weight.
Rod/Reel 7 ft 20-40lb rod loaded with 25-40lb test Matched reel/ penn Jigmaster or similar. (Rental rods are fine for this type of fishing)
Be prepared to prepare your catch. Don't keep more than you can handle. TIP/PAY the mates to at least remove heads and gut if that is what you want. It will save you time, and lighten your load. It took me 3 hours after I got home to prepare my fish (250 Mackerel 72 quart cooler full) AND another 2 hours to Vacuum seal the fillets. Bring ice even if it is cold and put a little water in the cooler.
Before I go fishing I make sure I have enough bags, wrap, freezer room and a spot to prepare the fish.
Material list for making Mackerel rigs.
Red surgical tubing (Surgical supply, home depot,)
Clear surgical tubing (aquarium air hose works)
Mylar tubing/ Silver and Gold (you can find this in craft stores)
40-50 lb Leader material
1/0 2/0 2X long shank saltwater hooks
Black barrel swivels 75-90lb
Fire Cracker instructions:
1) Thread Mylar braided tubing over 2/0 2xlong Mustad hook(unravel the end so it sticks out over the bend or the hook a little.
2) Tie in and glue with crazy glue near eye of hook.
3) Cover hook with clear surgical tubing up to bend.
Have fun,
Leif
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Good Post from one of the Masters of this fishery. Just dont forget the Sabiki rigs they also work at times .One should always keep some at hand. This time of year the MACKS are usually on the bottom use nothing less that a six ounce sinker. Please NO DIAMOND JIGS. One reason is that the average winter time depth is 150 ft.A Diamond Jig has no business being used they are dangerous this time of year and for the most part too light. I will usually always call out the depths on the PA system. Listen closely because when we get them started sometime they come up off the bottom and are any where from mid water to the surface.
The galley will be open , but most of the Mackerel being served on board from my experience have been served RAW with some type of red dipping sauce.
As for my my other two pals that commented from the peanut gallery.( STEVE and RAY) I love you guys also, but Give it a break . Dont ruin a good informative post here .I do this because i enjoy running a party boat and this fishery. You know all the political hoo ha and why i am here. As far as positioning ive run fast boats , slow boats, medium boats . I ve held my own. We are not racing for rock pile , a pile of bird life, trying to catch the tide or racing to a tight area of jig fish. There are only 3-4 boats that do this on the whole East Coast now 1 guy out of Brooklyn. who in the beginng of this run is closer to the grounds so throw speed out the window he is on them first . The 2 sponsor boats in Belmar and 1 in Non Sponsor in Point Pleasant who does it part time if they are close and splits the day with bottom fishing. We get to an area we go slow and "LOOK " for the readings because if ya go too FAST you WILL MISS THEM ! Im sure the 7am departure will give me PLENTY OF TIME !! Like i said earlier. Lets not ruin a good informative post here.This is a winter fishery. The temps are gonna dipped below 40 degrees
Time to hibernate like the bears and squirrels all winter long,
because in my 15 + years i have known and fished with the 2 of you I have yet too have the PLEASURE of seeing the both of you on any winter MACK boat i have run. Better Yet on ANY BOAT that does a winter fishery at all
Happy New Years guys i do love ya i mean that
See ya in the Spring
Signed
Capt Midnite
