Identify Sierra
- Body: long, slim, and silver, built for speed.
- Markings: rows of bronze or golden spots along the sides.
- Teeth: sharp, triangular, and plentiful. Handle with care.
- Size: most are 2 to 6 pounds.
Sierra are related to Spanish mackerel and king mackerel.
Know When Sierra Run
Sierra show up in Rocky Point's inshore waters mainly in spring and fall, when water temperatures are in the middle range. Schools move fast, so a good day can turn on and off quickly. See the fishing calendar.
Troll and Cast for Sierra
| Method | How |
|---|---|
| Trolling | Small spoons, feathers, or diving plugs pulled at a steady clip near the surface |
| Casting | Spoons and small metal jigs thrown at surface activity and retrieved fast |
| Bait | Small live or cut bait drifted near the surface |
| Leader | A short wire leader or heavy fluorocarbon. Sierra teeth cut light line instantly |
| Tackle | Light to medium spinning gear. Sierra are a blast on light tackle |
Pangas are ideal for sierra because they are fast enough to chase schools and low to the water. See panga fishing. Shore anglers sometimes catch sierra around rocky points on an incoming tide. See shore fishing.
Make Sierra Ceviche
- Cut 1 pound of very fresh sierra fillet into small cubes. Remove any dark meat.
- Cover with fresh lime juice (about 10 to 12 limes) and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes, until the fish turns opaque.
- Drain most of the lime juice.
- Mix in diced tomato, red onion, cucumber, chopped cilantro, and serrano or jalapeño to taste.
- Season with salt and serve with tostadas, hot sauce, and avocado.
Use sierra the same day it is caught, and keep it on ice from the boat to the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sierra mackerel?
Sierra is a fast, toothy mackerel found in Mexico's Pacific and Sea of Cortez waters. It is popular with inshore anglers and for ceviche.
How do you catch sierra?
Troll or cast small lures and spoons with a short wire or heavy leader, since sierra have sharp teeth. Pangas are ideal for inshore sierra fishing.
Is sierra good for ceviche?
Yes. Fresh sierra is a classic choice for ceviche in Mexico. Keep it cold and use it the same day for the best results.
Does sierra freeze well?
It is best fresh. Like other mackerels, it can turn soft and strong-tasting after long freezing, so eat sierra during your trip and freeze the grouper and cabrilla.