Van Hubbard: Mackerel, both Spanish and king, best in icy coolers

March leads us into our spring season. We did enjoy some spring-like weather last month, but each one should be weaker now. Spring has officially arrived, and I’m excited about all the fishing options available to us now.

To me, the biggest news was that some tarpon showed up before the last big blow. They should return with more fish each time they come back. Early fishing can be less predictable, but a lot less company! Silver kings without crowds is heaven on earth to many of us. Take a chance, reserve a trip with your favorite local guide now. If you need help locating our local guides, you can check in at our old Florida authentic Whidden’s Marina for the best captains and up-to-date information. They have fresh seafood frequently, too. It’s home to one of our island museums also; explore some of our heritage. Visit with island locals and try island time, no hurry.

Snook are still a big deal now for some of us. The strict regulations have trashed the fishery for many guides, but you can still enjoy some quality fishing before the crowds show up. Always ask your guide about what you are expecting. Guides have varied views on what they keep.

Baitfish can be challenging to catch this early, but it can usually be done. Expect to work for minnows until the weather stabilizes. Baitfish are not always cooperative. Each year is unique.

Several lures still produce action. Soft plastics are the easiest to learn. They can be used under corks or cast and retrieved. The single hook is easier to remove for releasing fish.

There are several good topwater baits, like the Mirrolure Top Dog and Duke Dog. These are exciting lures to fish. The explosive surface strike will grab your attention. The screaming first run, jumps, and battle are sure to thrill you. There are many other options in hard baits. Please be careful of your fingers and our precious fish when removing the very sharp treble hooks!

My personal favorite fish now are mackerel. We will have Spanish and should have king mackerel here anytime our Gulf waters clear up. The water temps are right, and they should turn on at any time. The easy way to catch them is trolling spoons. If fish are deeper, try using a metal planer. If at the surface feeding, just cast a spoon or jig and enjoy the hot action. Gulf Coast Hardware off island has the best local selection of options. Fishing Franks in Port Charlotte or Economy Tackle in Sarasota have extensive selections and staff to take the time to help you get set up.

Some folks say they don’t like mackerel. My experience is they either didn’t handle it properly, had no ice, or don’t know how to prepare it. Before the total closures on king mackerel back in 86, spring and fall mackerel runs were our busiest seasons. Everyone with a boat was fishing, if winds allowed, and enjoying the action. Even now, we have liberal bag limits on both species. The big secret is to immediately put your catch in icy cold water in your cooler. Just dip up some Gulf water and add it as you start to catch fish. It chills them and protects the quality.

Try broiling or grilling mackerel. Add seasoning to your taste; I like Everglades Seasoning, Old Bay, and Dukes mayo. Baste with mayo halfway to prevent burning. The fish is moist and tasty. We also smoke filets, then make fish dip with any not eaten immediately. The only complaint I get is, can we have more!

Enjoy this beautiful season and share it with family and friends.

Capt. Van Hubbard’s column Hook, Line and Sinker began in the Boca Beacon in 1988. He lives in Placida. Email him at captvanhubbard@gmail.com