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is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 9:05 pm
by Fish Masterson
and if not, is it legal to use as bait? I'm thinking yes but haven't found my answer on line.
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 9:18 pm
by Dubble Trubble
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
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 9:21 pm
by Dubble Trubble
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
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 9:30 pm
by mjsigns
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.
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 10:05 pm
by Fish Masterson
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?
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 10:10 pm
by charlie tuna
The law is pretty clear, read it and follow it !
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 10:12 pm
by Sea Fox
Busted!
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 10:19 pm
by Dubble Trubble
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
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 23rd, 2013, 10:35 pm
by Fish Masterson
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!
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 24th, 2013, 12:19 am
by mpa_72001
here we go again as the prop turns!
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 24th, 2013, 6:48 am
by MudDucker
Good Lord!
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 24th, 2013, 5:00 pm
by Rainman
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...
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 24th, 2013, 6:14 pm
by EddieJoe
You can't legally use a sea bass for bait in fed waters, as they are a reef fish.
EJ
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 24th, 2013, 8:59 pm
by FUTCHCAIRO
WE HAVE ALWAYS USED MACKS FOR COBIA BAIT AS FAR BACK AS I CAN REMEMBER, SHARKS LOVE'EM TOO.
PA
SEMPER FI
Re: is a spanish mackerel a game fish?
Posted: April 24th, 2013, 9:22 pm
by Dubble Trubble
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