Mackerel, Spanish

Scientific Name

Harvest Method

Harvest Area

Seasonality

Responsible Sourcing Information

Whole Fish Size

Filet Size

Yield From Whole Fish to Filet

Cooking Notes

Holds up to grilling, frying, searing, broiling, and baking. Flaky and moist texture, rich and pronounced flavor.

Best Substitutes

Atlantic Mackerel, Catfish, Tuna, Northern Pike, Bass, Bullhead, Salmon.

Editorial

Spanish mackerel, scientifically known as Scomberomorus maculatus, is a sleek and flavorful fish. With its distinctive iridescent skin and streamlined body, Spanish mackerel is a pelagic species found in warm waters.

Commonly harvested in the Atlantic Ocean, from the Gulf of Mexico and the South Atlantic, Spanish mackerel thrives in warm, open waters. The harvest season typically peaks in the summer months when Spanish mackerel migrate to shallower waters for spawning.

Harvesting Spanish mackerel involves various methods, including cast nets, gillnets, and hook-and-line gear, with cast nets accounting for the majority of catches. The use of these techniques ensures that fisherman catch mostly only Spanish mackerel, limiting bycatch of any other species. However, sustainability is a key concern in the fishing industry, and efforts are being made to manage Spanish mackerel stocks responsibly. Several fishery management councils have implemented catch limits and size regulations to maintain a healthy population and prevent overfishing.

Spanish mackerel boasts a rich, pronounced flavor and a flaky, moist texture, making it a key choice for various culinary applications. Whether grilled, baked, or broiled, this fish adapts well to a range of cooking methods. Its high oil content contributes to a succulent and rich taste that pairs wonderfully with citrus-based marinades or zesty salsa.

For those seeking alternatives, mackerel varieties such as Atlantic mackerel or even tuna can be suitable substitutes in recipes. These alternatives share similar textures and flavors, allowing chefs and home cooks alike to experiment with different dishes while maintaining the delightful essence that Spanish mackerel brings to the table.

https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/spanish-mackerel

Atlantic Mackerel vs Spanish Mackerel – Are They The Same?