Spanish Mackerel Fishing in Florida
When spanish mackerel are caught across Florida, season by season, from NOAA’s recreational catch survey (2024).
Spanish Mackerel catch through the year
Recreational catch in Florida by two-month season. The peak window is highlighted.
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Catching spanish mackerel in Florida
Spanish Mackerel catches in Florida run hardest around Sep-Oct, with the strongest two-month windows in Sep-Oct and Jul-Aug. Anglers keep about 53% of what they catch and release the rest. All of this comes from NOAA’s recreational catch survey, so it maps the season rather than any single day.
To turn the season into a trip, line the peak window up with the daily bite. Check the Florida fishing times for the solunar windows, the tide charts for moving water, and the sunrise and sunset times for first and last light.
Frequently asked
When is the best time to catch spanish mackerel in Florida?+
Catches peak around Sep-Oct (September and October). The strongest two-month windows are Sep-Oct and Jul-Aug. This is based on NOAA's 2024 recreational catch survey, so it reflects the typical season rather than a live report.
Do anglers keep or release spanish mackerel in Florida?+
Across Florida, about 53% of the spanish mackerel caught are kept and 47% are released. That works out to roughly 4.7M kept and 4.3M released in 2024.
How many spanish mackerel are caught in Florida?+
NOAA's survey estimated about 9.0M spanish mackerel caught by recreational anglers in Florida in 2024, making it the #10 most-caught species in the state. Survey estimates, so read them as the shape of the season.
Where does this spanish mackerel data come from?+
NOAA's Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), 2024 estimates. Courtesy: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
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