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Caught an Atlantic Mackerel Inshore in Savannah
Atlantic Mackerel Fishing in Savannah
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The Atlantic Mackerel belongs to the Scombridae family of fast-swimming predatory fish. These oceanic hunters typically measure between 14-24 inches and weigh 1-3 pounds when fully grown. - Found in nearshore and offshore waters along the Atlantic coast. - Known for their distinctive blue-green tiger stripe pattern on their backs. - Travel in large schools, making them exciting to catch when they're feeding.
Fishing Charter by Captain Zachary Holick in December
Meet your Captain Zachary Holick
- Unforgettable Fishing Adventures in Savannah, GA
Summary
Sunday June brought a perfect day for inshore fishing in Savannah, GA with Captain Zach's Fishing Charter. We started early morning from River Drive, exploring the productive waters around Whitemarsh Island with clear skies that later gave way to gathering clouds. Using a variety of techniques including bottom fishing, live bait fishing, and casting artificial lures, we targeted the local species while enjoying the scenic salt marshes that make Savannah's inshore waters so special. Even on days when the fish aren't jumping in the boat, the experience of being out on these beautiful waterways with knowledgeable local guidance makes every charter worth it. Perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers, these private inshore fishing trips offer a personalized approach to finding the best seasonal bite.
Fishing Charter with Zachary Holick – Rates & Booking
Captain Zachary Holick of Captain Zach's Fishing Charter on Sunday June offers private inshore fishing trips that accommodate up to 4 guests. His "Private Inshore Fishing Trip" package is perfect for anglers of all experience levels looking to explore Savannah's rich estuaries and productive inshore waters. Captain Zach provides all the necessary fishing gear, licenses, and local knowledge to put you on the fish, whether you're targeting redfish, speckled trout, flounder, sheepshead, or Atlantic mackerel. Early morning departures from 2812 River Dr give you the best opportunity to experience the morning bite when fish are most active. With years of local experience, Captain Zach tailors each trip to the current conditions and your preferences, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the water.
Highlights of Private Inshore Fishing Trip
Captain Zach's inshore charters focus on the diverse fishery around Whitemarsh Island and Savannah's intricate network of waterways. You'll explore productive spots using multiple fishing techniques including bottom fishing, live bait presentations, and casting artificial lures. This varied approach maximizes your chances of success regardless of conditions or season. The comfortable, well-equipped vessel provides everything you need for a productive day on the water.
Past customers like Adam have given Captain Zach five-star reviews, praising both the fishing action and the friendly, professional guiding experience. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to target specific species or a family wanting an enjoyable day on the water, these private charters offer a personalized experience with plenty of fish-catching opportunities in one of Georgia's most beautiful coastal settings.
Local Species Insights: Atlantic Mackerel
Atlantic mackerel make occasional appearances in Savannah's inshore waters, particularly when water temperatures and bait conditions are favorable. These streamlined predators are known for their aggressive feeding habits and powerful runs when hooked. While not the primary target for most Savannah inshore trips, they provide exciting action when encountered.
Captain Zach knows how to find these fast-moving fish when they're in the area, typically focusing on areas with good current flow and concentrations of baitfish. When targeting mackerel, he'll often recommend faster retrieves with flashy lures or small bait presentations that mimic their natural prey. The fight of an Atlantic mackerel on light tackle provides an exciting challenge even for experienced anglers, with their quick bursts of speed and acrobatic jumps making them a memorable catch during your Savannah fishing adventure.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
When booking with Captain Zach's Fishing Charter, plan to arrive at the 2812 River Dr meeting point about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, including a light jacket for morning trips and sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) for those bright Savannah days. While all fishing equipment is provided, you may want to bring a small cooler with beverages, a camera to document your catches, and any personal snacks you might want during the trip.
The boat comfortably accommodates up to 4 guests with ample fishing space and the essential safety equipment required for a secure day on the water. Captain Zach is known for his patient instruction for beginners while also providing the expertise that experienced anglers appreciate. His local knowledge of Savannah's waters ensures you'll have the best possible chance at a productive fishing experience regardless of your skill level.
Fishing in Savannah: Atlantic Mackerel
The Atlantic Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) belongs to the Scombridae family and Perciformes order. These striking fish are instantly recognizable by their sleek torpedo-shaped bodies with dark blue-green backs featuring distinctive wavy tiger stripes, and silvery-white undersides. In Savannah waters during summer months, these powerful swimmers can occasionally be found during inshore fishing excursions when conditions are right.
Atlantic Mackerel Overview
Atlantic Mackerel are pelagic fish that swim in large schools, making them an exciting catch when encountered. Prized for both their sporting qualities and table fare, these fish are known for their oily flesh that's packed with beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. Though primarily offshore creatures, they sometimes venture into inshore waters when following baitfish migrations.
Atlantic Mackerel Habitat and Distribution
These fish typically inhabit both nearshore and offshore environments, preferring the open water column rather than structure-oriented habitats. They range throughout the North Atlantic Ocean from Labrador to North Carolina on the western side and from Iceland to Morocco on the eastern side. Near Savannah, they're most commonly encountered in deeper inshore channels and around the mouths of sounds during their seasonal migrations.
Atlantic Mackerel Size and Weight
Atlantic Mackerel typically measure between 14 and 24 inches in length and weigh from 1 to 3 pounds when fully grown. While not the largest gamefish, their aggressive behavior and strong fights make them entertaining catches on light tackle.
Atlantic Mackerel Diet and Behavior
These voracious predators feed primarily on small fish, crustaceans, and zooplankton. They're known for their fast, aggressive feeding frenzies when they corral baitfish near the surface. Mackerel are visual hunters that typically feed during daylight hours, making them ideal targets for daytime fishing trips.
Atlantic Mackerel Spawning Season
Atlantic Mackerel typically spawn in spring and early summer in offshore waters when temperatures reach around 45-57°F (7-14°C). Female mackerel can release between 300,000 to 500,000 eggs which are fertilized externally. After spawning, they often move closer to shore following food sources.
Atlantic Mackerel Fishing Techniques
When targeting mackerel around Savannah, light spinning tackle with 6-10 lb test line works perfectly. Fast-moving metal lures like small spoons and kastmasters are particularly effective – retrieve them quickly just under the surface to mimic fleeing baitfish. Small jigs tipped with cut bait also work well when mackerel are feeding deeper in the water column. In June, anglers around Savannah might find schools of mackerel feeding near tide rips and channel edges where currents concentrate baitfish.
Atlantic Mackerel Is It Good to Eat?
Atlantic Mackerel is considered excellent table fare with dark, oil-rich meat that's loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The flesh has a distinctive flavor that's stronger than many other fish – those who enjoy it appreciate its rich, savory taste. Mackerel is best eaten fresh and works well grilled, smoked, or baked. Due to its oil content, it also freezes reasonably well compared to leaner fish varieties.
Atlantic Mackerel Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Atlantic Mackerel?
A: The best artificial lures are small, shiny metal jigs, spoons, and kastmasters retrieved quickly through the water. For natural bait, small strips of squid or fish on sabiki rigs work well when mackerel are feeding actively.
Q: Where can I find Atlantic Mackerel near Savannah?
A: While not a primary target in Savannah waters, mackerel occasionally appear in deeper inshore channels, around the mouths of sounds, and near offshore structures when following baitfish migrations, typically during spring and fall.
Q: Is Atlantic Mackerel good to eat?
A: Yes, Atlantic Mackerel is nutritious and flavorful, with high levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. The dark, oily meat has a distinct flavor that many seafood lovers appreciate. It's excellent when grilled fresh or smoked.
Q: When is the best time to catch Atlantic Mackerel?
A: The best time to target mackerel near Savannah is during their seasonal migrations in spring and fall when water temperatures are moderate. Early morning and evening hours typically offer the best action when they're feeding actively.
Q: How do you clean and prepare Atlantic Mackerel?
A: Clean mackerel promptly after catching by gutting and removing the head. Many anglers prefer to fillet them, removing the bloodline (the dark meat along the centerline) for a milder flavor. Cook fresh for the best taste, as their high oil content means they don't keep as long as leaner fish.
Q: What tackle should I use for Atlantic Mackerel?
A: Light to medium spinning gear with 6-10 lb test line works well. A 6.5-7 foot rod with a fast action tip allows for good casting distance with light lures and provides enough backbone to handle their strong runs.
