Members of the Scombridae are found in the tropical and subtropical seas around the world. There are 15 genera and 54 species worldwide. All of them are excellent food fishes. Many are of commercial importance and good sports fishes. Scientifically the family is divided into 2 subfamilies. The subfamily Scombrinae consist of 53 species and Gasterochismatinae consist of only one species. However, in general they can be divided according to their shape into 3 groups; spanish mackerels, mackerels and tunas.
The Spanish mackerels or seerfishes are mainly from Scomberomorus (18 species) and Grammatorcynus (2 species) genus. They are mostly found near the surface of coastal waters. They frequently occur in small schools and some of them are migratory fishes. They are carnivorous fish with large, triangular, compressed and sharp jaw teeth. They feed commonly on other schooling fishes, crustaceans and squids. They are frequently caught using artificial lures and live bait as they are attracted by flashing objects and wounded fish, particularly in murky water. Steel leader is used to prevent broken lines and care need to be taken to avoid their teeth when handling life Spanish mackerels.