Mackerel Fishing in Crystal River, Florida
Spanish and king mackerel provide fast-paced action around Crystal River. Spanish mackerel roam inshore and nearshore waters, while king mackerel are often found offshore chasing baitfish. They’re aggressive, fast, and hit lures hard.
Where to Catch Mackerel
Common mackerel locations include:
Nearshore reefs and wrecks
Along bait schools off the beaches
Deeper offshore ledges and hard bottom
Trolling or casting flashy lures works best when fish are feeding.
Best Time to Fish for Mackerel in Crystal River
| Season | Mackerel Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Excellent nearshore action |
| Summer | Very good offshore and around reefs |
| Fall | Good—especially with bait schools near shore |
Peak Season: Spring and early summer
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Spoons, Gotcha plugs, jigs
Bait: Live sardines, threadfin herring
Leaders: Light wire for kingfish, 20–30 lb mono for Spanish
Gear: Medium spinning or trolling setups
