Float tackle works just as well from boat as it does from shore but flying collar rig - yes, just like on the wrecks - can also bring results. I like to use the tackle shown below in connection with a small baitcaster and 6 lbs breaking strain line. I look for reefs and rocky marks, or sandbanks, and drop the tackle to the ground. I give it a few moments and then wind it up ten turns before releasing it again to the seabed.
What you will find is that the mackerel, if they are around, will pluck at the sandeel and get themselves hooked if you continue to wind. They can work their way through a lot of sandeels quite quickly but you can substitute a rubber eel or lure for the sandeel. On occasion, much to my annoyance, they sometimes switch on to prawns which is okay, I suppose, but not when you have been up half the night collecting them for bass!
What you will find is that the mackerel, if they are around, will pluck at the sandeel and get themselves hooked if you continue to wind. They can work their way through a lot of sandeels quite quickly but you can substitute a rubber eel or lure for the sandeel. On occasion, much to my annoyance, they sometimes switch on to prawns which is okay, I suppose, but not when you have been up half the night collecting them for bass!
Mackerel
Boat fishing for mackerel usually involves feathers and wholesale slaughter, which is, at best, okay if the fish are bait for larger predators, but not really under any other circumstances. It doesn't have to be that way, however, so why not try something different?
on the Boat!
Which is another thing, I hope you aren't too disappointed but this method also catches bass, pollack, gurnard and other predatory species. When I am drifting over sandbanks, I let the tackle drag along the bottom to see what comes up, which is when you get a lot of bass interspersed with the occasional mackerel. At these times it can be a good idea to change to 10 lbs breaking strain braid and use the lightest weight possible so as not to scare the fish. Get a bit of tide flowing and you might have to change up a little though.
