Spanish Mackerel

Chasing Spanish Mackerel in Westernport, Maryland, offers a unique Chesapeake Bay experience. These speedsters invade the bay's warmer waters from late summer into early fall, providing exciting action for anglers. Westernport's location gives you access to the main stem of the Chesapeake as well as the mouths of several tidal rivers, where mackerel often congregate to feed on baitfish. Trolling small spoons or tube lures behind planers or inline weights is a productive method. Look for breaking fish or diving birds, as this indicates schools of mackerel feeding on the surface. A local tip: try fishing near the Bay Bridge pilings or along channel edges where bait tends to concentrate. Be aware of strong currents and boat traffic, especially on weekends. Spanish mackerel are known for their sharp teeth, so using wire leaders is highly recommended. The mackerel in the Chesapeake are typically smaller than those found further south, but their aggressive strikes and blistering runs make them a worthy adversary.