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Serra Spanish mackerel

Scomberomorus brasiliensis

Serra Spanish mackerel© FishBase (CC BY-NC)

The Serra Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus brasiliensis) is a swift, silvery pelagic fish found along the Atlantic coast of South America. It is prized for its strong, high‑speed runs and firm, flavorful flesh, making it a popular target for both sport and culinary anglers.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Scombridae

Max Size

125 cm

Max Weight

6.7 kg

Habitat

marine

Climate

tropical

Best Season

November to March (Southern Hemisphere summer)

Best Time

Dawn and dusk (crepuscular periods)

Distribution

Select a map type to show distribution on the globe.

Fishing Tips for Serra Spanish mackerel

  • Troll with small metal spoons or soft plastic minnows at 5‑8 knots to cover larger water columns
  • Use live bait such as sardines or shrimp on a light jig when casting nearshore structures
  • Keep the drag set above 20‑30 lb to handle the fish’s fast runs without line breakage
  • Fish during a steady front or light wind to keep surface chop low, which improves lure action

Top Fishing Locations for Serra Spanish mackerel

Ilha Grande

Brazil
beginner65% Common

Large island off Rio de Janeiro with strong currents that attract schools of Serra Spanish mackerel; popular for drift boat charters.

Best: December-February

Búzios

Brazil
beginner70% Very Common

Coastal resort town with rocky points and deep channels; anglers target mackerel during the austral summer using light tackle.

Best: November-March

Mar del Plata

Argentina
intermediate55% Common

Southern Atlantic coast where seasonal upwellings bring mackerel close to shore; best accessed from harbors with experienced guides.

Best: June-August

Punta del Este

Uruguay
beginner60% Common

Peninsula with strong tidal streams that concentrate Serra Spanish mackerel; popular for weekend trips from Montevideo.

Best: December-January

Barbados Offshore

Barbados
intermediate35% Occasional

Open water sites east of the island where migrating mackerel form large bait balls; requires boat and moderate sea skills.

Best: April-May

Fernando de Noronha

Brazil
expert45% Occasional

Remote archipelago with crystal-clear waters; mackerel gather around steep drop-offs; accessed via limited charter flights.

Best: September-November

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Serra Spanish mackerel

Recommended Equipment

Rod7‑9 ft medium‑fast action spinning or casting rod
Line10‑30 lb (4.5‑13.6 kg) monofilament or braided line
Lure TypeMetal spoons, small trolling plugs, or soft plastic minnows
TechniqueTrolling, surface plugging, and light‑jig casting in open water

Best bait: Live sardines, anchovies, or shrimp