mackerel wicklow

[col]

hello this will probably seem stupid to most of you but have never actually really fished much for mackerel in wicklow because the few times i try i never seem to catch. and there is none to be seen when i fished for them. now however i would love to get more in on the action with these spirited fighters.hope im not too late. i just have a few questions for ye experts.
i know a rising tide in evening is best but was wondering if this really matters. if fishing newcastle beach do i have a good chance of encountering these at low tide at night or at high at say 3pm.
also the same q's for wicklow pier. i see greystones is fishing well be it is not really accesable for me.
one more thing quantity of fish doesnt really matter but would like to catch regulaly on casts sso woould you recomend spinners or feathers.
think spinners would be best for me as i plan to try and release most fish without harming skin.
any help is very welcome. happy fishing.
colm