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Spanish Mackerel - Scomberomorus maculatus
Family Scombridae, MACKERELS AND TUNAS
Description: Color of back green, shading to silver on sides, golden yellow irregular spots above and below lateral line; front of dorsal fin black; lateral line curves gently to base of tail.
Similar fish: Cero, S. regalis; king mackerel, cavalla.
Where found: INSHORE, NEARSHORE, and OFFSHORE, especially over deep grass beds and reefs; absent from north Florida waters in winter.
Size: Average catch less than 2 pounds (20 inches).
Remarks: Schooling fish that migrates northward in spring, returning to southerly waters when water temperatures drop below about 70 degrees F; spawns OFFSHORE, spring through summer; feeds on small fish and squid.
Florida record: 12 lbs.
Regulations:
Size Limit: 12" Fork
Season:
Bag Limit: 15 per person per day.
Comments: Transfer of Spanish Mackerel to other vessels at sea is prohibited.
Must remain in whole condition until landed ashore (heads and tails intact)
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