Catching Spanish Mackerel In Murrells Inlet, Myrtle Beach & the South Carolina Coastline
Spanish mackerel—flashy, fast, and aggressive—are among the most exciting inshore/nearshore gamefish on the Myrtle Beach / Murrells Inlet coast.
Always a favorite of anglers when we hook up, these adrenaline-pumping predators bring show-stopping action to Murrells Inlet.
How to Spot a Spanish Mackerel
Look for sleek, torpedo-shaped fish with silvery sides and a scattering of yellow spots that shimmer in the sun. They travel in tight, fast-moving schools and often remain near the surface—especially when feeding. A telltale sign: birds diving into breaking baitfish or surface commotion.
Where & When to Find Them in SC
- Spanish mackerel show up along the South Carolina coast from spring all the way through late fall, often peaking from summer into early fall.
- In Murrells Inlet, they’re found from the surf zone and jetties out to nearshore reefs—10 feet to a few miles offshore
- The key is clean, clear water, especially near tidal flow lines and structures like sandbars and jetties
Why Anglers Love Spanish Mackerel
- Fast, aggressive strikes — They hit jigs, spoons, or free-lined bait with lightning speed.
- Visual drama — Their surface activity, paired with diving birds, makes them easy to track and target.
- Great eating — Spanish mackerel are prized for their flavorful fillets—both delicious and versatile.
- School behavior — Hook one, and odds are good you’ve got more on the line nearby.
How We Target Them Around Murrells Inlet
You can troll to locate schools, then switch to casting for explosive action. Captains around here often:
- Troll at 5–6 mph using Clark or Drone spoons in colors like pink, chartreuse, and green—ideal for drawing busy mackerel strikes Carolina Sportsman.
- Pause to cast into feeding schools once located, or chum live mullet over artificial reefs for better chances of hooking bigger Spanish—and sometimes even a King Mackerel that crashes the party Carolina Sportsman+1.
Fishing & Conservation Notes
Spanish mackerel are managed by South Carolina regulations. They are actively fished recreationally and commercially—often sustained well by seasonal limits and size restrictions.
Always check the current SCDNR rules before heading out or ask your captain if you’re on a guided trip.
Ready to Spanish the Day Away?
These fish are fall favorites for good reason—visually exciting, delicious, and accessible from the shore to the reef. Whether you’re trolling or casting, Spanish mackerel deliver that fast-moving thrill that defines Hammock Coast fishing.
Call or text today to book a trip and get into the school before fall sails away.
