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Reeled In an 18inch Spanish Mackerel in Hampstead
Spanish Mackerel Fishing in Hampstead, NC
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Spanish Mackerel (Scomberomorus maculatus) are sleek, torpedo-shaped predators with greenish-blue backs and silvery sides marked with golden spots. These fast swimmers are highly prized by anglers for their aggressive strikes and excellent table fare. - Can swim at speeds up to 30 mph. - Typically travel in schools chasing bait near the surface. - Have razor-sharp teeth requiring careful handling.
Fishing Charter by Captain Phillip Loughlin in December
Meet your Captain Phillip Loughlin
- NC Charter Fishing and Mothership Kayak Trips
Summary
This Hampstead fishing charter showcased the excellent Spanish Mackerel action available in North Carolina coastal waters. Captain Phillip Loughlin of Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures guided this Tuesday October trip, resulting in an impressive 18-inch Spanish Mackerel catch. These fast-swimming predators are known for their exciting strikes and tasty fillets, making them a popular target for both novice and experienced anglers. The inshore fishing around Hampstead offers consistent action throughout the warmer months when these migratory gamefish pass through local waters. With experienced guidance and proper tackle, Spanish Mackerel provide thrilling light-tackle opportunities for the whole family.
Fishing Charter with Phillip – Rates & Booking
Captain Phillip Loughlin of Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures offers professional guided fishing charters in the productive waters of Hampstead, North Carolina. All necessary fishing gear, licenses, and bait are provided for a hassle-free experience. Trips can be customized for all skill levels, whether you're a first-timer or experienced angler looking to target specific species like Spanish Mackerel. Morning trips typically provide the best action, though afternoon charters are also available depending on tides and weather conditions. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak Spanish Mackerel season when availability becomes limited.
Highlights of this Fishing Trip
This Hampstead fishing trip produced an impressive 18-inch Spanish Mackerel, showcasing the quality of fish available in these productive North Carolina waters. Spanish Mackerel are prized for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights, making them an exciting target on light tackle. The trip demonstrated effective techniques for targeting these fast-moving predators, which often travel in schools chasing bait near the surface.
Captain Phillip's local knowledge was instrumental in locating these migratory gamefish, positioning the boat in prime feeding areas where Spanish Mackerel were actively hunting. The 18-inch specimen represents a quality catch for North Carolina waters, providing both an exciting battle and excellent table fare for the angler.
Local Species Insights: Spanish Mackerel
Spanish Mackerel are seasonal visitors to the Hampstead area, typically arriving in spring as water temperatures warm and remaining through fall. These streamlined predators are known for their blistering runs and tendency to feed in frenzied schools, making them particularly exciting when found in numbers. Anglers targeting Spanish Mackerel around Hampstead often find success using fast-retrieved spoons, small jigs, or trolled baits that imitate their preferred forage of small baitfish.
The waters around Hampstead provide ideal habitat for Spanish Mackerel with their mix of tidal currents, structure, and abundant bait populations. These fish prefer clean, moving water where they can ambush prey with their impressive speed. The 18-inch specimen caught on this trip represents a solid keeper, as Spanish Mackerel in this region typically range from 15-22 inches, with anything over 20 inches considered a trophy catch.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
When booking with Katfish Kayak and Fishing Adventures, plan to arrive early with appropriate clothing for variable weather conditions. The boat comfortably accommodates small groups, making it perfect for family outings or fishing with friends. Captain Phillip provides quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle specifically suited for the target species and conditions. Morning departures typically offer the most productive fishing, though tide schedules sometimes make afternoon trips equally effective. Don't forget sun protection, a camera to document your catch, and a cooler for bringing home your fresh fillets if you choose to keep your catch.
