Fishing Charters in Florida
Browse fishing charters in Florida that can help you catch mackerel.
Island Baby Islamorada
Tavernier, Florida
Flying Thief Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Key West Tarpon Fishing with Flying Thief Charters. Let us be your guide to the best Bonefish Spin Fishing, and excellent Flats Fishing in the Florida Keys.
Fat Cat Charters
Big Pine Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Sea Glass Excursions offers offshore and inshore fishing, snorkeling, sandbars, sunset cruise, or just a ride, I’m your guide. My Name is Captain Brian and I live in the Lower Florida Keys.
Double O Fishing Charter
Cudjoe Key, Florida
Tarpon Trips
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fishing
Summerland Key, Florida
Shane Wood Fly Fishing Guide - Rates and Information. Tarpon, Bonefish, Permit Photo Gallery. Book your fishing charter now.
Stock Island Fishing Charters
Naval Air Station Key West, Florida
Stock Island fishing charters at the entrance to Key West. Many different charters offered for all types of anglers and vacationers.
Captain Eddie Griffiths Charters
Key West, Florida
Dry Tortugas fishing trips with Andy Griffiths charters out of Key West, Florida. Overnight fishing to Fort Jefferson, Dry Tortugas and Marquesas Keys. Enjoy fishing and diving on your private charter, 2 or 3 day fishing charters for snapper, grouper, mahi mahi, wahoo and more. Best reef and wreck fishing available year round in the Florida Keys and west of Key West near the Dry Tortugas National Park.
Captain Bill Lowman Anna Maria Sportfishing
Holmes Beach, Florida
Anna Maria Island Charter Fishing Guide
Destination Fish Charters
Marco Island, Florida
Danny Fabian is one of Southwest Florida's premier backwater and sport fishermen in Naples and Marco Island, Florida. As a professional fishing quide, Danny specializes in fishing in Everglades National Park and focuses on Snook, Grouper, Tarpon, Trout, Redfish.
Captain Rio Adventures
Marco Island, Florida
Go fish with fun catching Charter fishing at its best!
Best Time to Catch Mackerel
Peak season: May, June, September. Also good: April, July, August, October. Right now in February, activity is poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Mackerel
Islamorada, the 'Sport Fishing Capital of the World,' is a superb place to target various species of mackerel. Spanish mackerel are common in the inshore waters and around the bridges, while king mackerel patrol the reefs and wrecks further offshore. The best time to fish for mackerel here is during the warmer months, from spring through fall, when they migrate into the area. Trolling with spoons or live bait is a popular technique, especially for king mackerel. For Spanish mackerel, try casting small jigs or spoons around structure. A local tip: chumming can be highly effective in attracting mackerel to your boat. Also, be mindful of the tides; mackerel often feed more aggressively during periods of strong current. Fishing from the bridges or piers can also yield good results, especially early in the morning or late in the evening. Mackerel are known for their speed and powerful runs, making them a thrilling catch for anglers of all skill levels.
How to Catch Mackerel
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Mackerel in Islamorada.
Mackerel Fishing Regulations in Florida
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
Spanish Mackerel: 15 per person; King Mackerel: 3 per person
Size Limit
Spanish Mackerel: 12-inch fork length minimum; King Mackerel: 24-inch fork length minimum
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
Regulations can vary by region, so always check the latest FWC regulations.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Florida state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Florida
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching mackerel in Islamorada?
For Spanish mackerel, try small shiny spoons, jigs, or live shrimp. King mackerel often go for larger live baits like blue runners or mullet, or trolled lures.
What are the size and bag limits for mackerel in Islamorada, Florida?
You can keep 15 Spanish mackerel per person, with a minimum fork length of 12 inches. For King mackerel, the limit is 3 per person, and they must be at least 24 inches fork length.
Do I need a fishing license to target mackerel in Islamorada?
Yes, you'll need a valid Florida saltwater fishing license to legally fish for mackerel and other saltwater species in Islamorada.
When is the best time of year to fish for mackerel in Islamorada?
Mackerel can be caught year-round in Islamorada, but they are most abundant during the warmer months, typically from spring through fall.
More Mackerel Fishing in Florida
Other Species to Fish in Islamorada
Ready to Catch Mackerel in Islamorada?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.