Narrowbarred Mackerel

Species Information

Scientific Name:	Scomberomorus commerson
Common Names:	Narrow-barred Spanish mackerel, Narrowbarred Mackerel, Narrow barred Mackerel
Environment:	Nearshore, Offshore
Ideal Temp:

About Narrowbarred Mackerel

The Narrowbarred Mackerel, also known as Scomberomorus commerson, is a species of fish in the family Scombridae. It is commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the eastern coast of Africa to the western coast of Australia and as far north as Japan. 

The body of the Narrowbarred Mackerel is elongated, slender, and streamlined. It has a pointed head and a mouth filled with sharp teeth. The dorsal fin is located on the back of the fish and is followed by a series of finlets. The back of the Narrowbarred Mackerel is usually blue or greenish-blue, while the sides and belly are silver-white. The most distinctive feature of this fish is a series of narrow, vertical bars or stripes that run along its sides, giving it its common name.

They are typically found in coastal waters, and can be found in a variety of habitats including rocky reefs, coral reefs, shipwrecks and other nearshore structures. They prefer water temperatures between 22°C to 30°C and are often found in schools near the surface of the water.

Narrowbarred Mackerel are carnivorous fish and primarily feed on a variety of small fish and squid. Their diet can vary depending on their size and location, but some common prey items include anchovies, sardines, mackerel, and juvenile barracuda. They are also known to feed on crustaceans such as shrimp and crabs.

Narrowbarred Mackerel are fast swimmers and use their streamlined bodies to chase and capture prey. They are also known to use their sharp teeth to slice through their prey and swallow them whole. These fish are apex predators and play an important role in regulating the populations of smaller fish and crustaceans in their habitat.

When targeting Narrowbarred Mackerel, it is important to use appropriate tackle and gear, as these fish are known for their powerful and fast swimming ability.  They can be caught using a variety of fishing techniques, depending on the location and the preferences of the angler. Here are some common methods for catching Narrowbarred Mackerel:
1.    Trolling: Trolling involves dragging a bait or lure behind a moving boat. Anglers often use lures that mimic the movement of small fish, such as skirted lures or metal spoons.
2.    Jigging: Jigging involves dropping a weighted lure or jig to the bottom and then jerking it up and down to mimic the movement of prey. This technique can be effective for catching mackerel that are feeding near the bottom.
3.    Casting: Casting involves using a rod and reel to cast a lure or bait into the water and then reeling it in. Anglers often use small metal jigs or plugs that imitate the movement of small fish.
4.    Live bait: Using live bait such as small fish or squid can also be effective for catching Narrowbarred Mackerel. Anglers can fish with live bait either on the surface or near the bottom.

Narrowbarred Mackerel are considered to be a highly valued food fish, and their flesh is firm, flavorful, and highly prized in many parts of the world. The fish can be prepared in a variety of ways, including grilling, baking, or frying. The high oil content in their flesh makes them well suited for smoking or canning. Narrowbarred Mackerel are commercially fished and can be found in fish markets and restaurants in many countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

Narrowbarred Mackerel Fishing

World Record:
# Fish Caught:	14147 documented in database.
Earliest Record:	7/2/1800 12:00:00 PM and located at 11.00000, 72.50000.
Latest Record:	6/25/2022 12:05:38 PM and located at 17.62118, 83.20749.
Common Techniques:	Casting, Jigging, Trolling
Popular Lure Types:	Jigs, Plugs, Spoons, Trolling
Fishing Spots:	1 Narrowbarred Mackerel fishing spots.

Latest Narrowbarred Mackerel Fishing Reports and Spots

Narrow-barred Spanish mackerel - Indo-West Pacific - 5/3/2013 9:34:56 PM

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