King Mackerel

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

King mackerel, also known as kingfish, are primarily found in the coastal waters of Florida. They inhabit both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, making them a popular target for anglers in the region.
Florida: King mackerel can be found along the entire coastline of Florida, both on the Atlantic side and the Gulf side. They are commonly encountered in areas such as Miami, Key West, Tampa Bay, and the Florida Panhandle. They are known for their seasonal migrations along the coast and can be found near reefs, wrecks, and other structures.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

King mackerel are pelagic fish that inhabit both nearshore and offshore waters. They are often found near structures such as reefs, wrecks, and offshore platforms where baitfish congregate. They are known to travel in schools and are highly migratory, following the movement of their prey.
Look for king mackerel near areas with strong currents, as they prefer areas with good water flow. They are commonly found in depths ranging from 20 to 200 feet, depending on the location and time of year. King mackerel are fast-swimming fish and are often encountered near the surface, particularly when actively feeding.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring months, king mackerel begin their annual migration along the Florida coast. They can be found in nearshore waters, particularly near reefs, wrecks, and other structures. Look for them in areas with baitfish activity and active feeding. Trolling with live bait or artificial lures at various depths can be effective during this season.

SUMMER

In the summer, king mackerel are commonly found in deeper waters, particularly in the vicinity of offshore structures and reefs. They may move further offshore as the water temperatures rise. Look for them near thermoclines, baitfish schools, and areas with good water movement. Slow trolling with live bait or using downriggers can be productive during this season.

FALL

As fall arrives, king mackerel make their way back towards the coast, following the movement of baitfish. They can be found in both nearshore and offshore waters, often near reefs, wrecks, and other structures. Look for them in areas with good water flow and where baitfish are concentrated. Trolling with live bait or artificial lures can be effective during this season.

WINTER

Winter can be a challenging time to target king mackerel in Florida as they may move to deeper waters or migrate further south. However, they can still be found near offshore structures and reefs if the water temperatures are suitable. Look for them in areas with good water movement and baitfish activity. Slow trolling with live bait or using planers and diving plugs can increase your chances of success.

King mackerel are aggressive feeders and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Live bait such as threadfin herring, blue runners, and cigar minnows are commonly used to target them. Trolling with these live baits or with artificial lures such as spoons, plugs, and feather jigs can be effective in enticing strikes. Varying the speed and depth of your presentation can help trigger a response from king mackerel.

Trolling

How: Trolling is a popular technique for targeting king mackerel. Use a downrigger or planer to get your baits to the desired depth and troll at a speed of 4-8 knots. Look for areas with structure, such as reefs, wrecks, or drop-offs, where king mackerel are likely to feed.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy trolling rods. Reels: Trolling reels with a smooth drag system and line counter feature. Line: 20-30lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 40-60lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 3-6 feet. Lures: Diving plugs, spoons, or skirted trolling baits.

Live Bait

How: Use live baitfish such as menhaden, mullet, or cigar minnows to target king mackerel. Rig the baitfish on a stinger rig or a live bait rig with a treble hook. Slow-troll or drift your bait near reefs, wrecks, or other productive areas.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning or casting rods. Reels: Spinning or casting reels with a smooth drag system. Line: 20-30lb test monofilament or braided line. Leaders: 40-60lb test fluorocarbon or monofilament leaders with a length of 3-6 feet. Hooks: Size 2/0 to 4/0 live bait hooks.

Vertical Jigging

How: Vertical jigging is an effective technique when king mackerel are holding near structure or suspended in deeper water. Use metal jigs of various sizes and colors and drop them vertically while imparting an erratic action. Jig up and down at a moderate to fast pace to entice strikes.
Gear: Rods: Medium to heavy spinning or conventional rods. Reels: Spinning or conventional reels with a high gear ratio. Line: 30-50lb test braided line with a fluorocarbon leader. Leaders: 40-60lb test fluorocarbon leaders with a length of 3-6 feet. Jigs: Butterfly jigs, speed jigs, or diamond jigs.

Fly Fishing:

How: King mackerel can provide an exciting challenge for fly anglers. Use large streamer flies that imitate baitfish. Cast your fly near structure or schools of baitfish and strip it in with long, fast retrieves to mimic fleeing prey.
Gear: Rods: 9-11 wt fly rods with a fast action. Reels: Large-arbor reels with a strong drag system. Line: Weight-forward floating or intermediate fly lines. Leaders: 9-12ft 20-30lb fluorocarbon leaders with tippet sizes ranging from 12-16lb. Flies: Large streamer flies in baitfish patterns.