King Mackerel

LOCATIONS

BODIES OF WATER

King Mackerel can be found in the Gulf of Mexico and off the Atlantic coast of Florida. They are commonly found in nearshore waters, such as bays, estuaries, and inlets, as well as offshore waters, including the Gulf Stream.

STRUCTURE/HABITAT

King mackerel are pelagic fish that often inhabit offshore waters, nearshore reefs, and areas with good water movement. They are known to congregate around structures such as wrecks, artificial reefs, and oil platforms. King mackerel can also be found near natural features like steep drop-offs, ledges, and submerged rock formations.
Look for king mackerel in areas with water depths ranging from 30 to 150 feet. They are frequently found near baitfish schools and areas with strong currents. Pay attention to temperature breaks and color changes in the water, as these can indicate the presence of king mackerel.

PATTERNS

SPRING

During the spring, king mackerel start to migrate northward along the Atlantic coast. They can be found in nearshore and offshore waters. Trolling with live bait, such as cigar minnows or blue runners, is a popular method for targeting king mackerel during this time. Look for them near structures, reefs, and areas with baitfish activity.

SUMMER

In the summer months, king mackerel are often found in deeper waters and around offshore structures. Trolling with artificial lures, such as spoons, plugs, or feather jigs, can be effective in enticing strikes. It's also common to use downriggers or planers to present baits at different depths. Pay attention to temperature breaks and thermoclines to locate active king mackerel.

FALL

As fall arrives, king mackerel continue their migration southward. They can be found in nearshore waters and around baitfish schools. Trolling with live bait or artificial lures remains effective, but slow trolling or drifting with live bait can also yield success. Look for them near reefs, ledges, and drop-offs where they often ambush their prey.

WINTER

During the winter months, king mackerel may move to warmer waters or stay in deeper offshore areas. While they can still be caught, targeting them during this season may require venturing to offshore structures or areas with strong currents. Trolling with deep-diving lures or using vertical jigging techniques can be effective when targeting king mackerel during the winter. Pay attention to favorable weather conditions and consult local fishing reports to maximize your chances of success.

King mackerel are aggressive feeders and will strike a variety of baits and lures. Live bait options for king mackerel include cigar minnows, blue runners, and mullet. When using live bait, it's recommended to rig it on a wire leader to prevent bite-offs.
Artificial lures can also be effective in enticing strikes from king mackerel. Popular choices include spoons, plugs, feather jigs, and trolling skirts. Choose lures that mimic the appearance and movement of baitfish to attract 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.