Mackerel fishing in Sweden
Mackerel (Scomber scombrus) is a fast schooling fish that arrives on Sweden's West Coast in summer. It bites readily, often comes in large schools and is one of Sweden's most popular fish for family fishing from boats, piers and rocks.
Makrillen är en snabb pelagisk fisk som kommer in mot kusten på sommaren. Fångas oftast med hekla.
Source: SLU Artdatabanken
Fishing tips & gear
- Mackerel feathers/paternoster rig (5–6 hooks with feathers)
- Small flashy spoons 15–30 g (Abu Toby, Falkfish Spöket)
- Pilkers 30–80 g (Hali, Storm)
Mackerel are about as easy as sea fishing gets — cast a feather rig or drop a pilker from a pier or boat. A shoal under diving birds is a goldmine. Classic spots: Smögen, the Bohuslän coast, the Halland coast, Öresund.
Most common methods
Where and when to find mackerel
Mackerel is mainly fished along Bohuslän and Halland, from around Kungsbacka to the Norwegian border. It usually appears in June and stays until September, with the best fishing in July–August.
Schools hunt sprat and small fish and often show as surface ripples and flocks of birds. Deep rock edges, points and harbour entrances give good chances from shore.
Methods and lures
A mackerel feather rig (several small hooks with tinsel) with a pirk or sinker at the bottom is the classic method. Jig up and down until you find the depth where the school holds.
From shore, casting lures of 15–30 grams and small pirks work well. Light spinning gear gives the most fun fight.
Rules and responsible fishing
Handline fishing for mackerel is free along the West Coast. Only take what you need – mackerel is oily and does not keep long, so eat or freeze it the same day.
Bring a knife and a cool box and dispatch the fish straight away for the best quality.
Lakes where makrill has been recorded
Based on species observation data for Swedish waters. Open a lake for weather, fishing times and local rules.
Frequently asked questions
When is the season for makrill?
The peak season for makrill in Sweden is June-September.
How big does makrill get?
Makrill can grow up to 2.0 kg.
What's the best method to catch makrill?
Common methods for makrill are Spinning, Trolling.
Which techniques work for makrill?
Spinning and Fly fishing — see the full guide for the right gear, baits and season.
Which bait works best for makrill?
Proven baits: Mackerel feathers/paternoster rig (5–6 hooks with feathers), Small flashy spoons 15–30 g (Abu Toby, Falkfish Spöket), Pilkers 30–80 g (Hali, Storm).
When does mackerel arrive on the Swedish West Coast?
Usually in June, with the best fishing in July and August. It leaves the coast during September.
Can you catch mackerel from shore?
Yes. Deep rocks, piers and harbour entrances along Bohuslän and Halland give good fishing with casting lures or feather rigs.
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