Target Species
King Mackerel
Step aboard with Fishing With Lester for a heart-pounding King Mackerel fishing adventure in Miami's offshore waters. Experience the thrill of hooking this powerful and speedy fish.
King Mackerel (Scomberomorus cavalla), also known as kingfish, are voracious, opportunistic carnivores found in the offshore waters around Miami and Haulover Inlet. Olive on the back fading to silver on the sides, kingfish typically weigh 5 to 14 kg but can exceed 40 kg. They eat small fishes like thread herring, sardines, shrimp, and squid, making them one of the most aggressive predators on South Florida reefs.
Captain Lester Wenger has spent over 40 years targeting kingfish on the reefs and wrecks off Miami-Dade County. He knows the migration patterns, preferred water temperatures (68 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit), and the exact spots where kings stack up along the reef line off Haulover Inlet.
Peak Season and Technique
The peak season for king mackerel in Miami is May through October, when the fish are most abundant in the warm waters. Trolling with live bait or artificial lures is the most effective technique, with movement that mimics natural prey drawing explosive strikes from hungry kingfish.
Best Bait
Ribbonfish and blue runners are the top choices for kingfish bait, as they are part of the king mackerel's natural diet. Captain Lester also uses live bait from his Haulover Inlet operation to target kings effectively.
Table Fare
King mackerel has a rich, pronounced flavor and firm texture. It is excellent grilled, broiled, smoked, or baked. Smaller kings (under 10 pounds) are generally preferred for the table.
Ready to hook into a hard-fighting kingfish? Book an offshore charter with Captain Lester or call (954) 557-8501 to get on the water.
King Mackerel Fishing FAQ
The peak season for king mackerel (kingfish) off Miami and Haulover Inlet is May through October, when the fish are most abundant in warm waters around the reefs and wrecks.
Ribbonfish and blue runners are the top choices for king mackerel bait. Live bait such as threadfin herring and pilchards from Haulover Inlet are also very effective for targeting kingfish.
King mackerel typically weigh 5 to 14 kg off Miami, but can exceed 40 kg. These powerful fish are known for their speed and aggressive strikes, making them a favorite target on offshore charters from Haulover Inlet.
Other Target Species
Ready to Catch King Mackerel?
Book your charter with Captain Lester today.