King Mackerel Fishing in Mississippi
Check regulations
Check regulations
Year-round
Overview
The King Mackerel is a popular saltwater game fish found throughout Mississippi. The king mackerel, known as "kingfish" or simply "kings," is one of the most exciting and hard-fighting offshore species in the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.
Best Waters in Mississippi
Specific water recommendations for king mackerel in Mississippi are being compiled. Check local fishing reports for current hotspots.
Local Techniques & Baits
Techniques
- trolling
- live-bait
Baits & Lures
- Live blue runner (hardtail)
- Live menhaden (pogey)
- Live cigar minnow
- Dead cigar minnow (slow-trolled)
- Wire-rigged ballyhoo
- Trolling spoon (silver, gold)
- Dusters and skirted lures
- Live sardine or threadfin herring
- Rapala CD Magnum (trolling)
Seasonal Guide for Mississippi
SpringSpring Fishing
King mackerel begin migrating northward from their wintering grounds off South Florida as water temperatures rise above 68 degrees. By April and May, they are moving along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, arriving at nearshore reefs and wrecks. Spring provides excellent action as hungry fish feed aggressively on their northward migration.
SummerSummer Fishing
Summer is prime kingfish season throughout their range, with fish spread from Florida to the Carolinas and across the Gulf Coast. Tournament season is in full swing. Target kings around nearshore reefs, wrecks, and live bottom areas by slow-trolling live bait or high-speed trolling with spoons and plugs.
FallFall Fishing
Fall brings the southward migration, concentrating fish along predictable routes near shore. Cooling water pushes baitfish and kings closer to inlets and beaches, creating excellent fishing opportunities. Some of the largest kings of the year are caught during the fall run as fish have fattened up all summer.
WinterWinter Fishing
Kings concentrate in warmer southern waters, primarily off South Florida, the Keys, and south Texas. Winter fishing can be exceptional in these southern zones as fish stack up in large numbers. Farther north, kings have migrated out and the season is essentially over until spring.
Regulations
Regulations change frequently. Always verify current regulations with Mississippi Fish & Wildlife. Information shown was last updated 2025-01-01.
Specific regulations for king mackerel in Mississippi are not listed in our database. Please check the official Mississippi regulations for current rules.