What are Mackerel feathers and how to use them
Mackerel feathers, often referred to simply as “feathers,” are a type of fishing lure used specifically for targeting mackerel and other pelagic species. These lures are widely popular among sea anglers for their effectiveness in attracting and catching mackerel in abundance. Here’s a breakdown of what mackerel feathers are and how they are used in sea fishing:
Construction: Mackerel feathers are typically constructed with a series of colorful, feather-like materials attached to multiple hooks. The feathers can be made from synthetic materials, natural feathers, or a combination of both. The colorful and reflective nature of the feathers mimics the appearance of small fish, making them highly attractive to mackerel.
Design: The design of mackerel feathers is meant to resemble a small shoal of fish swimming together. The multiple hooks attached to the lure increase the chances of hooking multiple mackerel simultaneously, providing an efficient and exciting fishing experience.
How They Work: Anglers use mackerel feathers by casting them into schools of mackerel or areas where these fish are known to congregate. The feathers create a visually enticing display as they move through the water, mimicking the appearance of a small baitfish school. Mackerel, being predatory fish, are drawn to the movement and vibrant colors, and they strike at the feathers, becoming hooked on the multiple barbed hooks.
Rigging: Mackerel feathers are typically rigged on a fishing line using a swivel at the top to prevent line twisting. The feathers are then attached to droppers, each armed with a small hook. Anglers may use a weight or a specialized lure called a “pirk” to provide additional casting distance and depth.
Variations: While the classic mackerel feather design consists of multiple hooks and colorful feathers, there are variations available in the market. Some may include additional features like shiny reflective materials, holographic patterns, or even small metal spoons to enhance the overall attractiveness of the lure.
Usage: Mackerel feathers are especially popular for shore fishing, pier fishing, and boat fishing in coastal areas. They are known for their ability to attract mackerel in a variety of conditions and are commonly used during the mackerel fishing season, which typically peaks during the warmer months.
Tips for Success:
- Retrieve Speed: Experiment with the speed of your retrieve. Sometimes, a faster retrieve can trigger more aggressive strikes.
- Depth: Adjust the depth at which you fish by using different weights or sink rates to target mackerel at varying depths.
- Color Selection: Mackerel feathers come in various color combinations. Pay attention to the conditions and water clarity to determine which colors may be more effective on a given day.
Mackerel feathers are not only effective for catching mackerel but are also known to attract other predatory species such as pollack and coalfish. When used correctly, mackerel feathers can provide a thrilling and productive fishing experience for anglers of all levels.
