Kingfish Fishing in Miami
Scomberomorus cavalla
Kingfish, or king mackerel, are long, toothy speedsters with a famous first run that can strip line from a reel in seconds. Off Miami they feed along the reef and the edge, often on the same live baits used for sailfish. Smoked kingfish is a South Florida classic.
Quick facts
Most fish are 30 to 40 inches long.
Large fish are called smokers.
We use a short wire leader so the line is not cut.
Kings often jump clear of the water when they strike.
Along the reef line and the edge.
Where to catch them off Miami
Reef edge
The drop-off from 80 to 150 feet holds kings when bait is around.
Wrecks and artificial reefs
Miami has many sunken wrecks that hold bait and kingfish.
Off Haulover and Government Cut
Water moving out of the inlets attracts bait.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
Kings are caught all year, with the best runs from late fall through spring.
Key events
Fall mullet run
The first real cold fronts of fall, nearshore water cooling toward the upper 60s °F, and days of northeast to east wind that push the schools against the beach.
Usually builds in Miami-Dade in October, with the peak around mid-October to early November. A warm fall can push it into November; a strong early front or storm can bring it in September.
Sailfish cold-front bite
North wind after a cold front, against the north-flowing Gulf Stream, pushes bait and sailfish up along the reef edge.
Depends on how many fronts reach Miami; a mild winter means fewer big days.
AffectsSailfishKing Mackerel
Best time and conditions
Cooler months
Winter and spring are best as fish migrate along the coast.
Moving water
A good current along the edge gets kings feeding.
Techniques and baits
Slow trolling
Live baits are pulled very slowly near the surface.
Kite fishing
Kingfish often hit the baits set for sailfish.
Stinger rigs
A second treble hook catches short-striking fish.
Wire leader
A thin wire leader stops bite-offs.
Top baits and lures
- Live pilchards
- Goggle-eyes
- Blue runners
- Ballyhoo
- Spoons
Florida regulations
These are the Atlantic limits. On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Mackerel rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Good when fresh and very good smoked. Smaller kings are best for the table.
Which charter is best?
Full Day Fishing
- $1,200 per trip
- 8 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 6 guests
- Also targets Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, Blackfin Tuna, Cobia, Tripletail, Amberjack, Almaco Jack, Shark and Barracuda
Kingfish FAQ
When is kingfish season in Miami?
All year, with the best fishing from November through April.
How many kingfish can I keep?
2 per person in Florida state waters and 3 in federal waters, each at least 24 inches to the fork.
Why do kingfish need a wire leader?
Their teeth cut through normal fishing line easily.
What is a smoker king?
A large kingfish, usually over 30 lb.
Which charter is best for kingfish?
The Full Day offshore trip. Kings are also caught on our sailfish set-ups.
Can I cancel my trip?
Free cancellation up to 3 days (72 hours) before your trip. This applies to every trip, including iguana hunts and snorkeling. To cancel, call Capt. Charles at (305) 972-5659 or email saltyfreshfishingcharters@gmail.com.