- 1). Rig the floater line with a 40-pound monofilament leader. The leader needs to be strong enough to set the hook into the mackerel as it hits and not snap upon the first run by the fish.
- 2). Use a 9- to 9-1/2-foot 8 weight rod with at least medium action. The tip is going to bend much more with a mackerel than trout, steelhead or salmon. While an 8-weight rod is a thick and heavy piece of equipment, it is crucial when rigging for fly-fishing mackerel.
- 3). Fly-fish for the mackerel with Clouser minnow flies or Mack hammers. Mackerel are school fish and swim in large groups, typically on the prowl for large schools of small baitfish. Look throughout the shallows for large silver flashes, indicating the groups of baitfish. Cast the fly out into the baitfish in the hopes of fooling the mackerel into a strike.
- 4). Avoid using a tippet on the line. While the 40-pound leader seems like an odd choice, it is necessary for the strength and for the repellency against the mackerel's teeth.
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