Narrow Barred Spanish Mackerel: Scomberomorus commerson

Also called Spanish Mackerel - Tanguigue - King Mackerel

This is another member of the "Razor Gang". The Spanish Mackerel sports an impressive set of razor-sharp teeth, capable of removing the body section of a trolled livebait without registering so much as a twitch on the line. Like their distant cousins, Wahoo, the Spanish Mackerel is an extremely fast fish and puts up an impressive fight when taken on appropriate tackle.

Phuket specimens rarely exceed 50lbs but the current IGFA World record stands at 99lbs. Unfortunately, most Phuket Spaniards are caught when targeting Sailfish and are regarded by many anglers as "bait stealers".

The Spanish Mackerel generally hunts alone or in small groups, cruising over reefs, seamounts and rocky ledges - seldom far offshore. Their speed of acceleration is incredible and often results in them rocketing out of the water for several feet when attacking their prey from below.

The Spanish Mackerel is highly regarded as a food fish by Thai people and consequently, it is heavily targeted by inshore commercial fishermen, using handlines baited with live yellowtails.