Dispatch Method:

Beware of the sharp teeth of all mackerel when handling them, even after they are dead. The eating qualities of these fish can be greatly improved if they are killed immediately by iki jime or a firm knock to the head before placing them in an ice slurry after bleeding. A firm knock on the head may be easier to implement to stun the fish first before attempting iki jime.

Fish Description:

• Silver-grey body, with sides of adult having about three indefinite rows of indistinct bronze-grey blotches (each a little larger than the eye).
  
• First dorsal fin has a black membrane and contrasting areas of intense white between the sixth and last dorsal spine.
  
• Anal fin and finlets are white.

Fish Distribution:

• These fish are found throughout the tropical and subtropical inshore waters, bays and estuaries of northern Australia and southern Papua New Guinea.
  
• In Australia they are found around the northern parts of the country from Shark Bay in WA to Sydney.

Fish Size Common Length:

Common around 50-80 cm fork length, maximum size 100 cm fork length and 8 kg.