PHOTOS BY LESLIE BOWMAN
In late summer and early fall, mackerel have made their way to Eastport and the breakwater is the place to catch them. People line up to cast weighted lines with “trees,” the term for the several sparkly hooks. On a good day, a bucket can be filled in an hour or so.
Once considered trash fish or merely bait when the cod and haddock were plentiful, today mackerel guarantee not only a rewarding day of fishing but a great source of protein and omega 3.
Those fishing may have come from central Maine, New Jersey or from nearby communities. Some catch and release, others give their catch away but most stock up for some culinary experience. The talk often turns to the best way to prepare the fish for eating. Grilling, freezing, canning and smoking are all options.