Discover the essential gear for mackerel fishing, from spinning rods to feather rigs. Learn to efficiently and safely catch mackerel with our helpful guide.
Basic Gear You’ll Need
A spinning rod and reel are ideal for mackerel fishing. A rod length of 8 to 10 feet provides a good balance for casting from the shore or pier. A medium to light action rod is sensitive enough to feel bites but is strong enough to handle multiple mackerel if you’re using a string of hooks. It's best to pair this with a spinning reel with a 12 to 20-lb line, that's either monofilament or braid.
Mackerel are attracted to shiny, moving bait, such as feather rigs. These rigs have multiple hooks attached to colourful feathers or shiny material, and when in the water, they mimic small fish. Spinners, metal jigs, or Sabiki rigs are also ideal lures for casting and retrieving mackerel.
A tackle box can store spare rigs, lures, weights, hooks and line cutters for adjusting your line and rigs. A landing net is especially handy on high piers, and a cool box or bucket can help keep your catch fresh. You should also bring a rag or gloves for handling fish and a disgorger or pliers to remove the hooks safely.
Tackle Box Essentials
A well-stocked tackle box makes mackerel fishing easier and more enjoyable. While you don’t need expensive equipment, having the right items ready means you can fish effectively and safely. Here’s what you should include in your tackle box for mackerel fishing in the UK:
Feather rigs (also called mackerel traces) are one of the most effective tools for catching mackerel, so it's best to keep several of these in your tackle box. It's also best to carry extra weights in your box since they help cast your line and keep it steady in the water.
It's crucial to carry a few spare hooks and a small spool of line in case you need to replace damaged parts. This can save your trip if your main rig gets broken or tangled.
Pliers can help you remove hooks from the fish safely and quickly, and some pliers even come with a built-in cutter. It's also best to include a rag or gloves, a hook disgorger, and a small first aid kit for cuts or hooks in fingers in your tackle box.
With these basics in your tackle box, you’ll be well prepared for a successful mackerel fishing trip.
Gear for Shore vs. Boat Fishing
When shore fishing for mackerel, use a 9 to 12-foot casting rod with a spinning reel spooled with a strong line. Carry feather rigs, spinners, and 2–4oz weights to attract fish and secure your line. Keep spare hooks, swivels, clips, and line cutters or scissors on hand to adjust or repair your setup easily.
It's essential to bring gloves to safely handle slippery mackerel with sharp fins. To keep your catch fresh, bring a bucket or a cool box, especially on warm days. This simple gear ensures you're well-prepared for a productive fishing session by the sea.
Using a shorter rod or hand line is more suitable when fishing from a boat. It's important to bring pliers and hook removers to safely unhook the fish. Always bring a life jacket, no matter what your experience level is.
The sea can change quickly, and your safety should come first. Additionally, bring suitable storage for the fish, such as a cool box or a storage bucket with a lid to keep your fish fresh and your deck tidy.
Top Lures and Baits for Mackerel
Feather rigs are the most popular choice of lures for mackerel fishing. These pre-tied rigs have several small hooks dressed with coloured feathers or shiny material to attract the mackerel. When they are cast into the water, they imitate small baitfish - mackerel’s natural prey - and lure the mackerel in for you to catch.
Sabiki rigs are similar to feather rigs, but they often have smaller hooks and finer, more subtle dressing. This type of bait is more useful in clearer water or when the fish are being picky.
Spinners, such as Dexter Wedges or Abu Toby lures, are great for casting and retrieving mackerel. These metal lures flash through the water, catching the light and drawing in the mackerel. They work well from piers or beaches where longer casts are needed.
Metal jigs are also useful, especially when you need to reach deeper in the water or if there's stronger currents.
Mackerel will also take strips of fish, such as herring or sand eel. Using fresh bait often increases your chances of catching mackerel if the fish are ignoring artificial lures.
To catch mackerel in the UK, it's crucial to bring a mix of feather rigs, spinners, metal jigs, and even some natural bait. This variety allows you to adapt to different conditions and maximise your chances of a good catch.
Looking For Sea Fishing in Cornwall?
Join The Swallow II for exciting mackerel fishing trips along the Cornish coast. Our guided trips are perfect for beginners and experienced anglers alike. We provide fun, scenic outings with great chances to catch fresh mackerel.
