WikiCatch
King mackerel

King mackerel

Scomberomorus cavalla

Family
Scombridae
Max Length
184 cm
Max Weight
45 kg
IUCN Status
LC
Water Type
saltwater
Fishing Spots
171

Overview

The king mackerel surmayi or kingfish, is a migratory species of mackerel of the western Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. It is an important species to both the commercial and recreational fishing industries.

Best Baits & Lures

Live Baits

  • Spanish Mackerel

    Excellent for trolling or drifting.

  • Blue Runners

    Hardy bait that can handle fast trolling.

  • Menhaden (Pogy)

    Oily and attractant, good for slow trolling.

  • Mullet

    Versatile, can be trolled or drifted.

  • Ribbonfish

    Long and slender, effective for trolling.

Artificial Lures

  • Yo-Zuri Crystal Minnow Deep DiverTrolling Minnow

    Dives deep to reach King Mackerel.

    Buy
  • Rapala X-Rap Magnum 30Trolling Minnow

    Durable and effective at high speeds.

    Buy
  • Clarkspoon Drone SpoonSpoon

    Classic choice, various sizes and colors.

    Buy
  • Sea Striker Got-Cha PlugTube Lure

    Great for casting around structure.

    Buy
  • Williamson Benthos Speed JigJig

    Vertical jigging near reefs and wrecks.

    Buy

Techniques

When trolling for king mackerel, use a stinger rig with two treble hooks to increase hookup rates, especially when using live bait.

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Where to Find King mackerel

Florida, United States43 spotsTexas, United States9 spotsAlabama, United States8 spotsMississippi, United States7 spotsPuntarenas, Costa Rica7 spotsNorth Carolina, United States6 spotsPuerto Rico, Puerto Rico6 spotsLouisiana, United States5 spotsSouth Carolina, United States5 spotsMaine, United States4 spots
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bait for King mackerel?+

Popular baits for King mackerel include Spanish Mackerel, Blue Runners, Menhaden (Pogy), Mullet, Ribbonfish. Tip: When trolling for king mackerel, use a stinger rig with two treble hooks to increase hookup rates, especially when using live bait.

Where can I catch King mackerel?+

King mackerel can be found in many locations worldwide. Top regions include Florida, United States; Texas, United States; Alabama, United States. WikiCatch lists 171 fishing spots where this species is found.

How big do King mackerel get?+

King mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla) can reach up to 184.0000033378601 cm in length and 45 kg in weight. Their IUCN conservation status is LC.

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