A larger cousin of Spanish mackerel, lacking spots in adults and featuring a sharp downward dip in the lateral line below the second dorsal fin. Requires heavy wire trace to resist razor teeth.
Season
August – October
Where
Ocean City Offshore Shoals, Fenwick Island Shoal, Lower Bay Mouth
Salinity band
Coastal & Ocean Marine (25 - 35 ppt)
Status
Native Atlantic Coastal Species
Record
MD Record: 43 lbs 8 oz
How we fish for them
Slow-troll live menhaden or spot on dual-treble stinger rigs around offshore shoals and artificial reefs.
Rod: Susquehanna Striper Rod 7'6" MHF Reel: 3000-size reel • 30lb Braid + Wire Stinger
Gear for this in the catalog →Handle with care
Safe release: Wet hands or rubber net before handling to preserve protective slime layer.
Seasons & limits are the law's, not ours
Size, season and creel rules change; always verify with the official regulations before you fish. Maryland DNR regulations →
Profile last reviewed: August 2026