Texas Gulf Coast Fishing

Snake Mackerel

SNAKE MACKEREL Gempylus serpens

Description: The snake mackerel has a very long, slender, laterally compressed body. It has a long, pointed head, measuring 17-18% of the standard length, and a large mouth with the lower jaw protruding beyond the upper. Both jaws are densely packed with sharp teeth; the first few teeth in the upper jaw are enlarged into fangs. There are two lateral lines, with the upper running to the rear of the first dorsal fin and the lower running to the caudal peduncle. The scales are mostly absent. The coloration is metallic brown, with dark fins.
Where Found: It is found worldwide in tropical and subtropical oceans; adults are known to stray into temperate waters. It is found to a depth of 1,970 ft. Adult snake mackerels conduct a diel vertical migration, staying in deeper water during the day and rising to the surface at night to feed. The young and juveniles also migrate vertically but in the opposite direction, staying near the surface during the day and moving deeper at night.
Size: Grows to 3 ft. in length.
Feeding Habits: Snake Mackerel feed on squid, pelagic crustaceans, and bony fishes such as lanternfishes, flying fishes, sauries, and mackerel. It is in turn preyed upon by tuna and marlin.