Shark Mackerel
Grammatorcynus bicarinatus
About Shark Mackerel
The shark mackerel is a powerful pelagic predator found in the warm tropical waters of northern Western Australia. Named for its elongated body shape reminiscent of a small shark, this species is prized by recreational anglers for its speed, aggression on lures, and excellent eating qualities.
Shark mackerel can be distinguished from other mackerel species by their characteristic double lateral line (giving them their scientific name "bicarinatus" meaning "two keels") and their more elongated, streamlined body profile. They typically reach sizes of 70-100cm, with specimens over 1 metre occasionally encountered.
These fish are highly aggressive feeders, making them exciting targets on light to medium tackle. They're often found in schools, meaning when you find them, multiple hookups are common.
Where to Find Them
Shark mackerel are primarily found in the warmer waters of WA's Gascoyne and North Coast bioregions. Key areas include:
Look for shark mackerel around reef edges, current lines, schools of baitfish, and near offshore structure. They're often found in the same waters as Spanish mackerel and queenfish, making multi-species sessions common.
Seasonal Patterns
Shark mackerel are available year-round in northern WA, but fishing quality varies with water temperature and baitfish movements.
Peak Season (May-August): The cooler dry season months offer the best shark mackerel fishing. Calmer conditions make offshore trips more accessible, and fish tend to school more predictably around structure.
Good Season (September-October, January-February): Transition periods still produce quality fishing, though weather windows may be shorter.
Fair Season (November-December, March-April): The wet season and build-up can make fishing unpredictable, though fish are still present. Cyclone activity may limit access.
💡 Timing Tip
Shark mackerel are most active during the first few hours after sunrise and the last hour before sunset. Plan your sessions around these windows for the best action.
Tackle & Techniques
Shark mackerel respond well to a variety of fishing methods, making them accessible to anglers with different gear preferences.
Recommended Tackle
Rod
6-7ft spin rod rated 8-15kg, or 5'6"-6ft overhead rod for trolling. Fast action for working lures and setting hooks in hard mouths.
Reel
4000-5000 size spinning reel or small overhead (Shimano Tranx size). Smooth drag essential for their initial burst runs.
Line
20-30lb braid main line with 40-60lb fluorocarbon leader. Wire trace optional but recommended when Spanish mackerel are about.
Lures
Stickbaits, metal slices, and diving minnows in 80-120mm sizes. Chrome, blue/silver, and green/gold patterns work well.
Effective Techniques
High-Speed Trolling
Trolling bibbed minnows or skirted lures at 6-8 knots is highly effective for covering ground and locating schools. Work the edges of reef systems and current lines. When you find fish, slow down and switch to casting.
Casting Metal Slices
Once fish are located, casting metal slices into the school produces explosive strikes. Use a fast retrieve with occasional pauses. Shark mackerel often hit on the drop, so stay alert.
Live Baiting
Smaller live baits like yakkas, scad, or sardines work exceptionally well. Float them behind a berley trail or fish them on a light sinker around structure.
⚠️ Handle With Care
Shark mackerel have razor-sharp teeth and powerful jaws. Always use pliers to remove hooks and handle fish by gripping the base of the tail. A lip grip tool is highly recommended.
Eating Quality
Shark mackerel are excellent table fare when handled correctly. The flesh is firm, pink to light grey, with a moderate oil content that makes it ideal for a variety of cooking methods.
Best Preparation Methods
- Sashimi: Bleed and ice immediately for premium raw eating
- Pan-fried: Skin-on fillets with a light dusting of seasoned flour
- Grilled: Cutlets or steaks with a herb butter
- Smoked: Hot-smoked fillets are exceptional
💡 Handling Tip
Bleed shark mackerel immediately after capture by cutting the gills. Ice them quickly in a salt ice slurry. Poor handling results in soft, mushy flesh - get it right and you'll be rewarded with firm, delicious fillets.
Full Regulations
Shark mackerel are classified as a large pelagic species under WA fishing regulations.
| Regulation | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Minimum Legal Size | 50cm (total length) |
| Daily Bag Limit | 3 (mixed large pelagic limit) |
| Possession Limit | Standard finfish possession rules apply |
| Closed Season | None |
| Licence Required | Recreational Fishing from Boat Licence (RFBL) if fishing from powered vessel |
⚠️ Mixed Bag Limit
Shark mackerel count towards your combined large pelagic bag limit of 3. This includes species like Spanish mackerel, wahoo, and other listed pelagics. Check the full regulations before heading out.
Source: WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. Always verify current regulations at fish.wa.gov.au
Related Species
If you're targeting shark mackerel, you'll likely encounter these species in the same waters:
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