Best baits for Mackerel

[sp nut]

Hi Guys,

I was just wondering what make the best baits to use for Spanish Mackerel?

I know that garfish and mullet are the most commonly used bait species but, I was wondering if other baits like tailor, pike, or even small tuna like frigates/bonito, could be used?

Also, Would you still rig them the normal way (on a set of gangs, with a small skirt over the head, on a short length of wire), or would you rig them differently?

Any thoughts would be welcome.

Cheers,

James

[ronnien]

james, the no1. wolfherring trolled on a chinguard.
no2. gar trolld on a chinguard.
these are rigged with a few hooks, the wolfe prob about 7-9 hooks depending on the size. i have found that if u go over structure knock the motor into neutral let the bait sink to the bottom than push it into forward, have got some big sparinds this way.
no3 deep diving lures, all these troll from 6-10 kts.
always use wire (halco 100lb trace), get the last hook right on the fork of the bait as they usally nip the tail then come back to finish the job.

ron.

[Kendall249]

For live bait I like herring, gar, mullet, fusilier,pike and bonito (watson's leaping bonito).

As dead bait, under a float all these incuding wolf herring (ribbon fish).

For trolling, wolfies, gar, mullet, bonito, pike and even legal doggies.

[batten]

my tip is to go see the wonderful guys at fishing wharehouse, talked to them bout the wolfies and how to rig the best help i ever got

[anthony72]

would fully agree with all above that wolfies on chin guard are the best I have used- get them swimming right and they are amazing in the water. Bigger the better.
Gars on wog heads or skipping.
Haven't used mullet but will give a go, also have friends that use good size slimey mack- I haven't had luck with these yet.
I also have had great success dropping out of gear when working a bait school or bommie. then kicking back into gear to lit the baits up towards the surface.