King Mackerel

Gulf State Waters and Monroe County

Minimum Size Limit: 24″ fork length

Daily Bag Limit: 3 per harvester

Season: Open year-round

Atlantic State Waters

(excludes Monroe County)

Minimum Size Limit: 24″ fork length

Daily Bag Limit: 2 per harvester

Season: Open year-round

Other Regulations

Gear Requirements:

• Legal Gear: hook and line and spearing only

Catching King Mackerel in Florida can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you successfully catch these fish:

1. Research Locations: King Mackerel can be found along the coastlines of Florida, especially in areas with structure such as reefs, wrecks, and artificial reefs. Research and locate hotspots for King Mackerel fishing before heading out.

2. Use Live Bait: King Mackerel are known to prefer live bait, so using live offerings such as threadfin herring, Spanish sardines, and cigar minnows can increase your chances of a successful catch.

3. Trolling Techniques: Trolling is a popular method for targeting King Mackerel. Use a downrigger or planer board to keep your bait at the desired depth, typically around 15-30 feet. Troll at a speed of 5-7 knots, varying your trolling path to cover different areas.

4. Use Artificial Lures: If live bait is not available, you can also use artificial lures like spoons, jigs, and plugs. Opt for lures that resemble the baitfish commonly found in the area, and experiment with different colors and sizes to find what works best.

5. Chumming: Chumming is an effective technique to attract King Mackerel to your fishing spot. Create a chum slick by periodically tossing small chunks of baitfish or fish oil into the water. This will entice the fish to gather near your boat, increasing your chances of a catch.

6. Rigging: When rigging for King Mackerel, use a wire leader of about 30-40 pounds to prevent the fish from cutting through your line with their sharp teeth. Attach it to a strong swivel and tie it onto your main fishing line. Use a treble hook or a single hook, depending on your preference and the bait size.

7. Look for Birds: Keep an eye out for birds, especially seagulls, as they often hover above schools of baitfish being pursued by King Mackerel. The presence of diving birds can indicate the location of feeding King Mackerel.

8. Be Prepared for a Fight: King Mackerel are known for their strong runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Ensure your equipment is strong enough to handle the fight, and be prepared for an exciting battle once you hook one.

Remember to check local fishing regulations, obtain the necessary licenses, and practice catch-and-release if you are not planning to keep the fish. Enjoy your King Mackerel fishing adventure in Florida!

SOURCE: https://myfwc.com/fishing/saltwater/recreational/king-mackerel/

Image Credit:Diane Rome Peebles