[dropcap]A[/dropcap]fter the best spring mahi run I have seen in years, the mahi bite will start to dwindle down. June is the time of year that we will have a lot of calm days and the kingfish will start to show in greater numbers in our Treasure Coast waters. Kingfish are a great fish to target for their blistering fast runs. These fish can be found from the beach to 100 foot depths and anywhere in-between. To find kings, look for bait schools, drop-offs or structure.
Kingfish will take a drone spoon or a big lip lure if you like to use artificial baits. If you prefer live baits, any bait such as pilchards, sardines, greenies or a big lively blue runner will work well for an offering. Whether you choose artificial or live bait, make sure to use about 10-to-12-inches of #6 wire ahead of your bait. If using live baits, it is a wise choice to use a treble hook for stinger rig. A stinger rig is a treble hook connected to the main hook with wire and the treble hook is inserted between the dorsal fin and tail of your live bait. I would recommend using a small treble hook so that there is less for the fish to see.
While trolling live baits or artificials, put one on a downrigger if available. It is always good to have a bait mid-depth in the water column. With a bait deeper in the water, it will entice a kingfish to eat even on slower days.
I recommend using light drag on your reel when targeting kingfish because, more times than not, a kingfish will be foul hooked in the head or side. A lighter drag will keep you from pulling the hook out of the skin. Also, a light tipped rod is always good to use as it will have some give to prevent ripping out the hook.
Smaller kingfish are good to grill and eat but bigger kingfish are better if smoked or made into fish dip.
If the smaller kingfish are schooled up and you have had your fill of catching kingfish, watch your bottom machine. Many times you can drop baits to the bottom in the same area and catch snapper. Snapper hang under schools of kingfish to eat the leftover bait pieces that the kingfish are eating.
Enjoy all the fishing opportunities we will have this month. Check your rules and regulations and catch ’em up. Remember keep an eye on the sky for any afternoon storms.
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