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:

• A slender bluish-green to silvery-grey mackerel.
  
• Both juveniles and adults of this species have several rows of large round distinct spots along the sides.
  
• Females grow faster and reach a larger size than males. Females mature between 50 and 60 cm length, while males mature between 45 and 50 cm long, both in their second year.
  
• Maximum age is likely to be no more than 7 years.

Fish Distribution:

• This species can be encountered throughout northern Australia from the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, Western Australia, to around Coffs Harbour, New South Wales. Found elsewhere in southern Papua New Guinea.
  
• Spotted mackerel are a pelagic species, usually found in offshore waters away from reefs in water up to 50 meters deep. However, they are known to follow baitfish inshore.
  
• On Australias east coast, spawning occurs in northern Queensland from August to October. After spawning, large schools head inshore and migrate southwards during a feeding migration down the Queensland coast during the summer months.

Fish Size Common Length:

60-80 cm, maximum size around 120 cm and 10 kg.