Pacific Sierra Mackerel

A schooling species, the Pacific sierra is fast moving, voracious predator feeding on small fishes.

 

HOW TO IDENTIFY A PACIFIC SIERRA MACKEREL

The Pacific sierra is most easily distinguished by pigment and color pattern. It is silver-blue above and silvery white on the lower sides and belly with a series of yellow-brown spots on the side. The anterior half of the first spiny part of the dorsal fin is jet black, in contrast to the lighter remainder of the fin.

WHERE TO CATCH PACIFIC SIERRA MACKEREL

Occurs in the eastern central Pacific; from La Jolla in southern California, U.S.A. south to the Galapagos Islands and Paita, Peru and has been reported from Antofagasta, Chile. It occurs near the surface of coastal waters over the continental shelf and is believed to spawn close to the coast over most of its range. The following list includes additional details on where to catch this fish:

 

BAYS AND ESTUARIES                SURF AND SHORE

 

HOW TO CATCH PACIFIC SIERRA MACKEREL

The Pacific sierra is the most abundant game fish along the Pacific coasts of Mexico and Central America. Anglers employ a variety of natural baits and artificial lures with wire leaders to guard against their sharp teeth. The following are fishing methods used to catch this fish:

 

DRIFT FISHING                         CHUMMING                               SURF CASTING

SALTWATER TROLLING          FLY FISHING                     BOTTOM BOUNCING

STILL FISHING                         SALTWATER JIGGING

 

PACIFIC SIERRA MACKEREL LURES, TACKLE & BAIT

The following are lures, tackle or bait that can be used to catch this fish:

CUT BAIT                 JIGS                                    SALTWATER LIVE BAIT

SPOONS               TROLLING LURES                  FLIES

PLUGS                    SHRIMP                                SQUID