Catching king mackerel is an exhilarating and rewarding experience for any angler. Known for their speed, strength, and aggressive strikes, king mackerel are one of the most sought-after fish in the saltwater world. These powerful predators can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour and put up a fierce fight when hooked. Whether you're fishing from a pier, a boat, or offshore, understanding the right techniques and equipment is crucial for successfully landing a king mackerel.
This guide will walk you through the best methods for catching king mackerel, from choosing the right gear to using effective bait and techniques to increase your chances of success.
Pier Fishing for King Mackerel
King mackerel are found in both nearshore and offshore waters, often in areas where there are schools of baitfish. They prefer warm waters, making them common in tropical and subtropical regions.
Pier Fishing
King mackerel can be caught from piers, especially in areas where the water is deep enough and the current is strong. Piers near drop-offs, sandbars, or reef areas are prime locations. In addition, piers in the Gulf Coast, Southeast U.S., and parts of the Caribbean are known hotspots for king mackerel. Oak Island is also a prime location for pier anglers targeting king mackerel, with peak seasons and a strong reputation among fishermen.
Offshore Fishing
Kingfish are frequently targeted by offshore anglers. The open ocean offers plenty of opportunities many anglers to catch larger specimens, and kingfish are often found around reefs, wrecks, and other structures where baitfish congregate.
Coastal Waters
King mackerel are also common in coastal waters, especially during the warmer months. They often move closer to shore during their feeding and spawning periods, offering good opportunities for inshore anglers.
Best Times to Catch King Mackerel
King mackerel are available year-round in some areas, but the most productive fishing seasons tend to be during the warmer months when they are feeding heavily.
Season
King mackerel are most abundant from late spring to early fall. Their peak migration generally happens between May and September, especially in the Gulf Coast and Atlantic Ocean. During this time, the fish are more active and aggressive, increasing your chances of hooking one.
Time of Day
King mackerel are most active during low-light conditions, such as early morning or late afternoon. During these times, the water is cooler, and fish are more likely to be hunting for baitfish near the surface. Fishing at these times increases your chances of encountering a kingfish.
Tidal Conditions
King mackerel tend to be more active during tidal changes, particularly during the incoming and outgoing tides. The movement of the tide helps to bring food closer to the shore, attracting kingfish to these feeding areas.
Gear for Catching King Mackerel
Using the right equipment is essential for successfully catching bigger fish like king mackerel. These fish are fast, strong, and have sharp teeth, requiring durable and well-suited gear.
Rod and Reel
A medium to heavy-action spinning or conventional rod is ideal for king mackerel. A fighting rod with medium to heavy action, typically 7 to 9 feet long, is essential for handling live bait and securing a successful catch. Additionally, an anchor rod is crucial for casting an anchor line; it should be strong and typically around 7 to 9 feet in length to ensure stability and proper setup in conjunction with the fighting rod. Pair the rod with a saltwater reel that can hold at least 200 yards of 20-30 lb test braided line.
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Tip for Anglers: A reel with a smooth drag system is crucial for king mackerel, as these fish make fast, long runs once hooked. Ensure the reel has a reliable drag that can handle their power.
Fishing Line
For king mackerel, braided line is ideal because of its strength, sensitivity, and thin diameter, allowing for long, accurate casts. A 20-30 lb test braided line works well for most fishing situations. Use a 40-60 lb test fluorocarbon leader to withstand abrasion from their sharp teeth.
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Tip for Anglers: Use a fluorocarbon leader, as it is more resistant to the abrasions caused by king mackerel’s sharp teeth and is nearly invisible in the water.
Hooks
King mackerel have sharp teeth, so it is important to use a strong, sharp hook. Circle hooks in the range of 5/0 to 7/0 are popular for live bait fishing. For lures, use larger hooks that can handle the fish’s aggressive strikes.
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Tip for Anglers: Use circle hooks when fishing with live bait, as they tend to hook the fish in the corner of the mouth, minimizing deep hooking and making for an easier release.
Best Baits for King Mackerel
King mackerel are predatory fish that feed on smaller fish like menhaden, mullet, sardines, and squid. The best bait for kingfish are those that mimic the movement and behavior of these prey species.
Live Bait for King Mackerel
Live bait is one of the most effective ways to catch king mackerel. The movement of live baitfish draws kingfish in, as they are naturally attracted to the erratic swimming of prey. Cigar minnow is also an effective live bait option, particularly when slow trolling for king mackerel.
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Best Live Bait: Menhaden, mullet, sardines, and live squid are excellent choices for kingfish. Hook the bait through the nose or back to allow it to swim naturally.
Cut Bait
If live bait is not available, dead bait can be an effective alternative when trolling is not effective. Cast the dead bait in front of surface fish to mimic an injured fish and increase the chances of attracting predatory species like kingfish. Cut the bait into large chunks to simulate injured prey and attract their attention.
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Best Cut Bait: Use oily fish like mackerel, bonito, or bluefish, as these species are commonly found in kingfish diets.
Lures
Lures can be effective when targeting king mackerel, especially when trolling or casting from a boat or pier. The key is to use lures that mimic the size and movement of baitfish.
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Best Lures: Spoons, diving plugs, and large swimbaits are popular choices. Lures with flashy colors, such as silver, chartreuse, or blue, are known to attract kingfish.
Techniques for Catching King Mackerel
Once you have the right gear and bait, the next step is using the correct techniques to target the strike zone and increase your chances of landing a king mackerel.
1. Trolling
Trolling is one of the most effective ways to catch kingfish, particularly when fishing offshore or over deep water. It allows you to cover a large area while keeping your bait in the strike zone.
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How to Do It: Attach live bait or lures to your trolling rig and drag them behind the boat at a speed of 5-7 knots. Use multiple rods and vary the distance of each one from the boat to cover more area. Adjust the depth of your bait to match where the kingfish are feeding.
2. Casting and Retrieving Lures
Casting and retrieving is another effective method for king mackerel, particularly from piers or when fishing in shallow areas. By casting lures that mimic baitfish, you can attract kingfish from a distance.
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How to Do It: Cast your lure into the current or feeding area and retrieve it steadily to simulate the movement of a fleeing fish. Vary your retrieve speed and technique to see what works best for attracting kingfish.
3. Live Baiting from the Shore or Pier
Fishing with live bait from a pier or shoreline can be highly effective for king mackerel. As the fish hits the bait, it is crucial to wait until you feel the fish running before setting the hook. An anchor line can be used to secure live baits in place to prevent tangling while using a fighting rod to engage the fish when it strikes. Cast the live bait out into the current or near structure where kingfish are likely to be feeding.
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How to Do It: Hook your live bait through the nose or back, cast it out into the water, and allow it to swim naturally. Use a sinker to keep the bait near the bottom if the water is deeper.
4. Chumming
Chumming is an excellent technique for attracting kingfish to your fishing spot. Using live or dead bait can further enhance your chances of attracting fish, particularly as dead bait can mimic the movements of injured fish to provoke strikes. By dispersing pieces of bait into the water, you create a scent trail that draws kingfish closer to your location.
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How to Do It: Drop small pieces of cut bait into the water to create a scent trail. Once the kingfish are drawn to the area, present your live bait or lure to them. Make sure to keep a steady flow of chum to maintain the kingfish’s interest.
Conclusion
Catching king mackerel requires the right gear, techniques, and patience. Whether you’re fishing from a pier, boat, or offshore, kingfish offer an exciting challenge for anglers. By understanding the best times to fish, using the right bait, and employing effective methods like trolling, casting, and chumming, you can increase your chances of landing one of these powerful and fast fish. With these tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to hook a king mackerel and enjoy the thrilling fight that comes with it.
FAQs
What is the best bait for king mackerel?
Live bait like menhaden, mullet, and sardines is the most effective. Cut bait such as mackerel or bonito can also work well, as well as lures that mimic the movement of prey.
How fast should I troll for king mackerel?
The ideal trolling speed for king mackerel is 5-7 knots. Adjust the speed based on the bait you are using and the behavior of the fish.
What time of day is best to fish for king mackerel?
Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to fish for king mackerel, as they are more active during low-light conditions.
Can I catch king mackerel from a pier?
Yes, king fishing for mackerel can be successfully done from piers, especially in areas with deep water and strong current. Use live bait or large lures and fish during the incoming or outgoing tides.
How can I tell if a king mackerel is biting?
King mackerel strikes are often quick and aggressive. If you feel a sudden tug or pull, set the hook immediately. Be prepared for a fast run as the fish tries to escape.
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