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Scomber nigricollis

Scomber nigricollis

The black‑nose mackerel (Scomber nigricollis) is a fast‑swimming, surface‑dwelling pelagic fish prized for its razor‑sharp runs and flaky, oily flesh. Anglers target it for its aggressive strikes and tasty, sushi‑grade meat, making it a popular summer game fish in coastal waters.

Fight
Taste
Game Fish

Basic Information

Family

Scombridae

Max Size

40 cm (16 in) length, 0.7 kg (1.5 lbs) weight

Habitat

Coastal pelagic zones, surface to 100 m depth, often near islands and offshore currents

Best Season

June‑September

Best Time

Early morning and late afternoon

Distribution

No distribution map available

Fishing Tips for Scomber nigricollis

  • Troll with small silver spoons or metal jigs at 2–4 knots to locate schools
  • Cast light jig‑heads with soft plastic or metal minnow lures and retrieve with quick, erratic twitches
  • Use live anchovies or sardines as bait for a natural scent trail
  • Fish near surface breaks, drift lines, and around floating debris where schools congregate

Top Fishing Locations for Scomber nigricollis

Cape Town Mackerel Run

South Africa
intermediate70% Very Common

Coastal upwelling brings abundant schools of black mackerel close to shore, making it a prime spot for drift fishing.

Best: June-August

Nusa Penida, Bali

Indonesia
beginner55% Common

The currents around Nusa Penida concentrate pelagic species, and black mackerel bite readily on light lures during the spring surge.

Best: March-May

West Maui Offshore

United States
intermediate60% Common

Off the western coast of Maui, deep-water passes host large schools of black mackerel, especially when the trade winds are steady.

Best: May-July

North Coast, Barbados

Barbados
beginner80% Very Common

The north shore reefs create a feeding corridor for black mackerel, attracting anglers with surface trolling techniques.

Best: April-June

Corralejo, Fuerteventura

Spain
intermediate70% Very Common

Canary Island upwelling zones draw pelagic schools; black mackerel are common near the rocky outcrops in autumn.

Best: September-November

Christmas Island Offshore

Australia
expert75% Very Common

Remote reefs around Christmas Island host prolific black mackerel shoals; the high catch rates make it a bucket‑list destination for serious anglers.

Best: December-February

Market Prices

Recommended Fishing Equipment for Scomber nigricollis

Recommended Equipment

Rod6‑7 ft medium‑action spinning rod
Line6‑10 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon
Lure TypeSmall metal jigs, spoons, or soft‑plastic minnows
TechniqueSurface trolling, cast‑and‑retrieve jigging, and drift fishing

Best bait: Live or cut anchovies, sardines, or other small baitfish