is a spanish mackerel a game fish?

Post by **Fish Masterson** » April 23rd, 2013, 9:05 pm

and if not, is it legal to use as bait? I'm thinking yes but haven't found my answer on line.

Post by **Dubble Trubble** » April 23rd, 2013, 9:18 pm

From what I see, they are listed as so on the FWC quickchart, and have a length limit and bag limit. So, I would assume that they are not a baitfish, but with the crazy FWC laws, who knows?

Chart Link:

http://myfwc.com/media/2462342/2013%20Quick%20Chart.pdf

Dubble

Post by **Dubble Trubble** » April 23rd, 2013, 9:21 pm

Yep, just read the chart real close. Blue triangle means they have to remain in whole condition.

So, bait, NO!

HOWEVER, it also says removal of gills and guts are fine, so you could use those as bait.....

Dubble

Post by **mjsigns** » April 23rd, 2013, 9:30 pm

Excellent table fare, fried, blackened or broiled, but no as good a grouper

They are alot easier to clean. Bleed them once caught, and then ice'em in the cooler.

Post by **Fish Masterson** » April 23rd, 2013, 10:05 pm

I see that shrimp had the same triangle posted to it! any one else have any insight, or do all us shrimp fishermen need to turn ourselves in?

charlie tuna · Post by **charlie tuna** » April 23rd, 2013, 10:10 pm

The law is pretty clear, read it and follow it !

Post by **Sea Fox** » April 23rd, 2013, 10:12 pm

Busted!

Post by **Dubble Trubble** » April 23rd, 2013, 10:19 pm

Fish Masterson wrote:I see that shrimp had the same triangle posted to it! any one else have any insight, or do all us shrimp fishermen need to turn ourselves in?

That does bring up the question: Can you use a legally caught Spanish mackerel as long as you gut it and leave it whole on the hook? Provided it meets the length requirement.

I have a headache and need a lawyer!

Dubble

Post by **Fish Masterson** » April 23rd, 2013, 10:35 pm

so apparently I need to ask an leo if I can find one well versed on the salt laws. thought you guys could.give me a definitive answer!

mpa_72001 · Post by **mpa_72001** » April 24th, 2013, 12:19 am

here we go again as the prop turns!

Post by **MudDucker** » April 24th, 2013, 6:48 am

Good Lord!

Post by **Rainman** » April 24th, 2013, 5:00 pm

Spanish mackerel does not have game fish designation. Throw it on a hook and hold on! You can use legal sea bass as well to catch cobia...

EddieJoe · Post by **EddieJoe** » April 24th, 2013, 6:14 pm

You can't legally use a sea bass for bait in fed waters, as they are a reef fish.
EJ

FUTCHCAIRO · Post by **FUTCHCAIRO** » April 24th, 2013, 8:59 pm

WE HAVE ALWAYS USED MACKS FOR COBIA BAIT AS FAR BACK AS I CAN REMEMBER, SHARKS LOVE'EM TOO.
PA
SEMPER FI

Post by **Dubble Trubble** » April 24th, 2013, 9:22 pm

Rainman wrote:Spanish mackerel does not have game fish designation. Throw it on a hook and hold on! You can use legal sea bass as well to catch cobia...

So, you got half of a 14" mackerel and the man pulls up. How you gonna explain that it is not "whole" as the Regulations say?

Not saying you can't use 'em for bait, I have no idea, but it does not fall within the rules....

Dubble

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is a spanish mackerel a game fish?

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