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Entry 228Filed under Breeding

Are Mackerel Freshwater Fish? Habitat, Nutrition, and Mercury Safety

Mackerel are marine fish, not freshwater fish. Learn where Atlantic, Pacific, and king mackerel live, how their nutrition differs, and what FDA mercury guidance says.
2-minute read By Animalso Team
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No. Mackerel are saltwater fish. Different species live in marine waters in the Atlantic and Pacific, and their nutrition and mercury guidance vary by species. Here’s how to tell where common mackerel live and what that means when choosing them as food.

Where do mackerel live?

“Mackerel” is a common name for several fish, so habitat details depend on the species. The mackerel covered here are marine fish, not freshwater fish.

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Atlantic mackerel

Atlantic mackerel range across both sides of the North Atlantic, including the Baltic Sea. In the western Atlantic, they occur from Labrador to North Carolina. NOAA Fisheries describes them as living in cold and temperate waters over the continental shelf. They form schools near the surface and move between spawning and summering grounds. NOAA Fisheries’ Atlantic mackerel profile lists the species’ range and habitat.

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Pacific mackerel

Pacific mackerel occur from southeastern Alaska to Mexico and are most common south of Point Conception, California. They live in coastal waters; juveniles use sandy beaches, kelp beds and open bays, while adults use shallow banks and can occur at depths approaching 1,000 feet. Adults migrate north in summer and south in winter. These details describe Pacific mackerel specifically, not every fish called mackerel. See NOAA Fisheries’ Pacific mackerel profile.

#1 Best Overall
Bumble Bee Chub Mackerel, 15 oz
  • CHUB MACKEREL: Similar in size to a large sardine, Chub Mackerel is a whole fish with skin and bones included. Each 15oz can contains two to five whole fish (fish size varies).
  • SWAP FOR TUNA IN ANY RECIPE: Chub Mackerel is a simple swap for tuna fish. Add to pastas and casseroles, top salads and sandwiches, form into patties, or whip into a delicious dip.
  • PACKED WITH PROTEIN & NUTRIENTS: Excellent source of protein (12g per serving) and good source of vitamin D and calcium.
  • RICH DISTINCT FLAVOR: Robust slightly sweet and salty flavor with a firm moist texture and moderate flake.
  • SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: Bumble Bee Chub Mackerel in Water contains only mackerel, water, and salt. This wild caught canned fish is perfect for those on Keto, Paleo, and Mediterranean diets.

King mackerel

King mackerel are another marine species. NOAA describes their coastal-pelagic range as extending from Massachusetts to Brazil, including the Caribbean and Gulf of America. They prefer warm water and migrate seasonally. Their mercury guidance also differs from that for Atlantic and Pacific mackerel.

What nutrients does mackerel provide?

Mackerel can provide protein and fat, including omega-3 fatty acids. NOAA describes Atlantic mackerel as high in omega-3s and an excellent source of selenium, niacin, and vitamins B6 and B12. Nutrient amounts vary by species, so the figures below should not be treated as one universal mackerel nutrition label.

Rank #2
Chicken of the Sea Mackerel Fillet in Oil, 3.53 oz. Packets (Box of 24), Wild Caught Mackerel
  • 100% SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: Chicken of the Sea Mackerel in Oil packets contain only premium cuts of wild caught mackerel perfectly seasoned with salt and packed in soybean oil for a rich, delicious flavor. It is also gluten-free with no preservatives.
  • CONVENIENT AND VERSATILE: We put the delicious flavor and fantastic nutrition of wild caught mackerel in a convenient, portable packet. With no can opener required, our mackerel packets are equally at home in your pantry or your lunchbox.
  • HEALTHY LIFESTYLE FUEL: Mackerel is packed with protein, omega-3s, and rich, savory flavor, so it’ll turn even the simplest dish into a scrumptious meal and is an ideal addition to keto, paleo, and Mediterranean diets, or any healthy lifestyle.
  • WILD CAUGHT: Chicken of the Sea is proud to offer only responsibly sourced, high quality, wild caught mackerel. We’re leading the charge to ensure that our seas are sustainable now and for future generations.
  • BULK 24 PACK: Each order contains (24) 3.53-ounce pouches so you can stock up. Add a packet to your next salad or rice bowl, or grab a fork and dig right in anywhere your healthy lifestyle takes you.
Species and serving basis Calories Protein Total fat Other listed nutrients
Raw Atlantic mackerel, per 100 g; NOAA profile last updated October 1, 2026 205 18.6 g 13.89 g 3.257 g saturated fat; 70 mg cholesterol; 44.1 mcg selenium; 90 mg sodium
Pacific mackerel, per 100 g; NOAA profile, page accessed 2026 158 20.07 g 7.89 g 2.247 g saturated fat; 47 mg cholesterol; 36.5 mcg selenium; 86 mg sodium
Raw king mackerel, per 100 g; NOAA profile, page accessed 2026 105 20.28 g 2 g 0.363 g saturated fat; 53 mg cholesterol; 36.5 mcg selenium; 158 mg sodium

These are species-specific profile values with the stated serving basis; they are not directly interchangeable. NOAA’s profiles do not establish that every mackerel species has the same nutrient content. See the Atlantic, Pacific and king mackerel profiles for their respective figures.

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Does mercury guidance differ by mackerel species?

Yes. The FDA’s fish advice, revised October 2021, places Atlantic mackerel and Pacific chub mackerel in Best Choices, Spanish mackerel in Good Choices, and king mackerel in Choices to Avoid because of its highest mercury levels. The category is species-specific: the word “mackerel” alone is not enough to determine the recommendation. Check the FDA’s current fish advice for the latest guidance.

Rank #3
Sanniti Mackerel Fillets in a Rich Tomato Sauce | Super Food | High in Protein | High in Omega 3, 4.4 oz (Pack of 3)
  • Rich Tomato Sauce: Our Mackerel Fillets in a Rich Tomato Sauce offer a delicious and satisfying flavor experience. The succulent mackerel is gently cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce, creating a harmonious blend of tastes that is sure to please your palate.
  • Super Food Benefits: Packed with nutritional benefits, our Mackerel Fillets are a true superfood. They are rich in protein and high in Omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Versatile Culinary Ingredient: Our Mackerel Fillets in a Rich Tomato Sauce are a versatile addition to your kitchen. Enjoy them straight from the can as a protein-packed snack, or incorporate them into your favorite recipes. They can be added to salads, pasta dishes, sandwiches, or served alongside crusty bread for a quick and nutritious meal.
  • Quality and Flavor: We take pride in sourcing the finest mackerel fillets and combining them with a rich tomato sauce to ensure the utmost quality and flavor. Each bite showcases the tender texture of the mackerel and the robust taste of the tomato sauce, delivering a memorable culinary experience. Savor the taste of our Mackerel Fillets in a Rich Tomato Sauce while reaping the nutritional benefits of this superfood.
  • Product of Denmark. A Scandinavia Tradition

For people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, FDA’s 2021 guidance recommends 8–12 ounces of lower-mercury fish weekly: 2–3 servings from Best Choices or one serving from Good Choices. It advises children to eat two servings weekly from Best Choices, with serving size varying by age. For a 2,000-calorie diet, FDA’s general advice is at least 8 ounces of seafood per week. These are FDA recommendations from the page revised in October 2021; consult its live guidance for current advice and serving details.

Best Value
Iberia Jack Mackerel in Tomato Sauce, 15 Ounce
  • Iberia Jack Mackerel in Tomato Sauce is a delicious and convenient canned seafood option that can be used in a variety of dishes.
  • The mackerel used in this product is sustainably sourced and rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which can have numerous health benefits.
  • The tomato sauce adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the natural richness of the mackerel.
  • This product is a good source of protein and is low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or high-protein diet.
  • Iberia Jack Mackerel in Tomato Sauce is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on its own or used as a versatile ingredient in a variety of recipes, from sandwiches and salads to pasta dishes and casseroles.
Rank #4
Sale
Chicken of the Sea Mackerel in Oil, 2.5 oz. Packet (Box of 12), Wild Caught
  • 100% SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: Wild-caught premium mackerel seasoned with salt; packed in oil for rich flavor; gluten-free with no preservatives
  • CONVENIENT AND VERSATILE: Convenient tear-open packets require no can opener; perfect for pantry storage or on-the-go meals
  • HEALTHY LIFESTYLE FUEL: Rich in protein and omega-3s; ideal for keto, paleo, and Mediterranean diets; versatile for salads, rice bowls, and quick meals
  • WILD CAUGHT: Responsibly sourced wild-caught mackerel; supports sustainable fishing practices and ocean conservation
  • BULK 12 PACK: Includes 12 packets (2.5-ounce each); portable and shelf-stable for easy meal preparation

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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