What are King Mackerel?
King mackerel, commonly known as kingfish, is a saltwater fish found in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. It is part of the mackerel family, known for its elongated body, tapered head, and razor-sharp teeth, making it an efficient predatory fish. King mackerel are a popular target for sport fishermen due to their speed and agility, which make them challenging and exciting to catch.
An interesting fact about king mackerel is that they are extremely fast swimmers, reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. This incredible speed makes them formidable predators, allowing them to chase down swift prey such as flying fish and squid. For anglers, the speed of king mackerel adds a thrilling dimension to fishing, as it requires quick reactions and robust gear to successfully land these powerful fish. The chase and fight of hooking a king mackerel are what make them one of the most exciting game fish to target.
What does kingfish taste like?
Kingfish is known for its rich, oily meat which has a distinctive, slightly strong flavor compared to milder white fish. Its high oil content makes it particularly savory when fresh. The meat is firm and dense, with a medium to dark coloration, depending on the cut.
How should I cook King Mackerel?
Kingfish can be prepared in various ways, each enhancing its natural flavors. Grilling and smoking are particularly popular methods, as they accentuate the fish's rich taste. When grilling, marinating the fish beforehand can help to infuse additional flavors. For a milder taste, baking or broiling kingfish with a light seasoning of herbs and citrus is recommended to soften its robust flavor.
How do I catch King Mackerel?
To catch kingfish, anglers often employ trolling techniques using live bait such as ribbonfish, mullet, or pilchards, which are effective at attracting these fast swimmers. Outriggers and downriggers are essential to maintain the bait at optimal depths where kingfish are known to feed. Additionally, shiny spoons and lures that mimic the movement of small fish can be very attractive to kingfish. Besides trolling, anchoring over structure and chumming can also be highly effective. This method involves anchoring in known kingfish territories near reefs or wrecks and using a mix of chum to draw kingfish close to the boat, increasing the chances of a successful catch.
Can I catch Kingfish on a Badfish charter?
While certain times of the year Kingfish are more prevalent than others we can target them on our charters out of
Anna Maria,
Bradenton,
Palmetto,
Ruskin,
Tampa,
Sarasota, which are all located near
Siesta Key. Give us a call to book your next kingfish charter!
What are the best months to catch King Mackerel?
The best months for catching kingfish in the Tampa Bay area are late spring and early fall. During these periods, water temperatures are conducive for nearshore fishing trips, as they typically dip into the 70s and large amounts of baitfish move into the area. However, kingfish can be caught year-round, with the lowest activity occurring from December through February due to colder water temperatures.
How big do kingfish get?
Kingfish can grow to substantial sizes, with some specimens reaching up to 70 inches in length and weighing over 90 pounds. However, typical catches are generally between 20 and 50 pounds. The size of the fish can vary depending on their age and the specific conditions of their habitat.