As kingfish are one the toughest fish to catch So , in this article we will learn about how to catch kingfish , best bait and so on. You can see below table of content and learn whatever you want about Kingfish.
Table of Contents
HOW TO CATCH KINGFISH ? (USEFUL GEARS)
Live Baiting
When starting out in pursuit of Yellowtail Kings, using live bait is your best bet for success, as these fish readily devour well-presented live bait. Squid, Slimie Mackerel, and Yellowtail Scad (Yakkas) are popular and readily available bait choices, although a live Bonito or Mac Tuna should not be overlooked.
Whenever possible, match the hatch by catching bait that the Kings naturally feed on and present it as naturally as possible.
Slow trolling is an effective method, allowing you to cover ground and locate fish. Alternatively, you can use your electronics to locate fish and drop a live bait directly in front of them using a paternoster or bottom rig.
Once a King takes your live bait, give them enough time to fully consume it (around 5 to 10 seconds), then set the hook (if using circle hooks, a gentle pull is sufficient) and hold on tight!
Jigging
Jigging requires a different approach compared to live baiting, focusing on fresh live bait and presentation. It demands physical effort and stamina.
Short rods with an aggressive taper are commonly used when dropping jigs weighing between 60 grams and 250 grams for Kings in their preferred locations. Match your assist hooks to the size of your jig and the fish you aim to catch.
Work the jig with a variety of retrieves—short, sharp jerks, long and slow sweeps, and occasional pauses.
Jigging will test your shoulders and back even before you hook a King, so use your electronics to your advantage and time your drops effectively to maximize your chances of success.
The Battle & Your Equipment
The Yellowtail Kingfish is known as one of the toughest opponents for anglers in Australia, rivaling the Giant Trevally and the Dogtooth Tuna, which are not easily accessible to anglers in most areas.
Yellowtail Kings fight fiercely and will use any available structure to their advantage, attempting to break free by entangling your leader among sharp objects. Your hooks, leaders, mainlines, and terminal tackle must be flawless, as any shortcomings will be exploited by these powerful fish.
The intensity and brutality of the fight require careful consideration of your equipment when targeting large Kings (over 130cm and 20 kilograms). High-end gear with drag capabilities suitable for stopping these powerful fish is essential. A determined attitude to complement your equipment is also highly recommended, as anything less may lead to disappointment.
Topwater
Topwater fishing in saltwater is incredibly demanding—physically, mentally, and on your equipment and budget. However, when you manage to entice a large Yellowtail King to strike on the surface, all the effort quickly becomes worthwhile.
Cast large stickbaits and moderately sized poppers as far as you can and retrieve them accordingly, varying your retrieval techniques with each cast.
Some days, the Kings will aggressively attack any lure you present, creating spectacular explosions on the surface. Other days, they may show only faint interest, following your lure without striking. This can be frustrating!
The technical aspects of topwater fishing, such as selecting the right lure for the water conditions and adjusting split rings and hook sizes to control lure movement, add an exciting dimension to the sport. Mastering these techniques may take a lifetime.
Off The Stones (Rocks)
While most of the above information applies to anglers on boats, it is also possible to target large Kings from the rocks.
The principles remain the same, with minor adjustments such as rod length, reel size, line size, and presenting live baits with flotation devices requiring consideration.
Just be prepared for the thrill of a lifetime when a 145cm beast engulfs your live Bonito, with its tail slamming against your floatation device!
What is the best bait for Kingfish ?
Ribbonfish have a remarkable shine underwater, making them highly attractive to kingfish.
Whether using live or dead ribbonfish, the rigging technique will vary.
For live ribbonfish, rig them with an open mouth, while for dead ribbonfish, rig them with a closed mouth.
To rig a live ribbonfish, insert the first treble hook from the bottom through the mouth and out the nose. Ensure the wire is straightened to avoid tension.
Place the second and third hooks just above the ribcage for optimal positioning.
Some other baits for Kingfish are :-
- Live bait fish: Sardines, mullet, mackerel, anchovies
- Fresh cut bait: Squid, bonito, shrimp
- Consider local baitfish species
- Match bait to the Kingfish's feeding preferences
Where is the best place to catch Kingfish in USA?
During the spring and fall seasons, when bait is plentiful and the water temperature ranges between 72-78 degrees Fahrenheit, Kingfish migrate through the central west region of Florida.
Therefore, Florida is one of the best place in the world to catch Kingfish.
Also in Southern California areas like San Diego, Los Angeles, and Santa Barbara is also know for excellent Kingfish Fishing.
When to catch Kingfish ?
In popular inshore fishing spots like the Hauraki Gulf, kingfish are more abundant during the warmer months from December to May. During early spring and late winter Kingfish usually spawn. However, don't discount a location just because it's the colder season. You can still find good-sized kingfish swimming around, although they may not be as numerous.
Kingfish tend to move around reefs and pinnacles, positioning themselves on the up-current side where baitfish gather due to upwellings and eddies. Certain spots work better during the incoming or outgoing tide, and some dedicated kingfish anglers believe that fishing can be challenging during the period of the full moon and shortly after.
Is Kingfish Hard to Catch ?
Yes, King fish are hard to catch because of following reasons.
- Elusive behavior
- Aggressive fighter
- Selective feeding habits
You can apply following tips to catch them :-
- Research and locate productive areas
- Use appropriate gear
- Choose affective baits or lures
- Employ various techniques
- Be patient
Gears to Catch Kingfish
Followings are the most important gears to catch Kingfish :-
- Fishing Rod
- Reel
- Fishing Line
- Hooks
- Leaders
- Swivels
- Jigs
- Live Bait Rigs
- Gaff
- Pliers or Hook Remover
FAQs
How do you catch Kingfish from shore ?
Try casting lures or using live bait near structures or areas with current.
What are the best techniques for catching Kingfish ?
Trolling, vertical jigging, and using popping corks with live bait are effective techniques.
What bait is most effective for Kingfish fishing ?
Live bait like mullet, sardines, and artificial lures such as spoons and jigs work well.
Where can I find Kingfish in USA ?
Look for them near offshore reefs, wrecks, and areas with strong currents also in Gulf of Mexico.
What fishing gear is recommended for Kingfish ?
Medium to heavy spinning or conventional rods with a strong drag system is recommended.
What are tips for hooking and landing Kingfish ?
Use sharp hooks, maintain steady pressure, and be prepared for their powerful runs.
When are Kingfish more active ?
They are often more active in warmer months, but it can vary by region.
What are beginner-friendly tips for catching Kingfish ?
Target areas with higher populations, use simple techniques, learn regulations, seek guidance from experienced anglers, and be patient.