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Damn Good Kingfish Fishing Charters

Check real-time availability and compare rates on kingfish fishing trips. Confidently book your next day on the water.

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Recently Booked Kingfish Fishing Charters

Fishing in Galveston

Flats, Inshore, Jetty Fishing Charter in Galveston

Galveston Inshore Jetty Trip

100% (23)
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Fishing in Shalimar

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Shalimar

Destin Rod-Bender

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Destin

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Offshore Thrills

NEW
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,250
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Orange Beach

Inshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Half-Day Hookup

100% (8)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Orange Beach

Inshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Alabama Inshore Magic

100% (4)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Fishing in Key Largo

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Key Largo

Deep Sea, Wreck And Reef

NEW
34 ft 1 - 6 People From $900

Top Cities for Kingfish Fishing

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and look forward to getting you out on the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Kingfish Fishing Charters

Fishing in Pompano Beach
Fishing in Pompano Beach
Fishing in Pompano Beach
trip description for Pompano Fishing Frenzy in Pompano Beach

We offer a variety of trips, from trolling, live bait fishing, Swordfishing, Sharkfishing, Bottom trips. You will be fishing a fully rigged 28’ twin outboard center console, outfitted with state of the art electronics and top of the line equipment. Our trolling trips are our most popular. The fishing grounds are 1 to 3 miles outside the inlet. We catch a variety of fish on these trips, including Wahoo, Tuna, Mahi, Kingfish, Sailfish. Our nighttime anchor trips are also very popular. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Pompano Beach

Pompano Fishing Frenzy

67% (3)
28 ft 1 - 6 People From $550
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
trip description for Nearshore Trophy Thrills in Galveston

Captain Shannon has a reputation for helping people reel in some trophy-sized fish! Captain Shannon will help you target Blacktip Shark, Cobia, and Kingfish throughout your 5 hour trip on the water. You can expect to fish anywhere between 5 and 15 miles offshore. With Captain Shannon’s 31 foot Ocean Master, you’ll be out on the water in no time. These trips host up to 6 people. Captain Shannon will provide all the bait and tackle you need for the trip. All you have to bring is a fishing license with a saltwater stamp (applies to all members of the party), food and drinks, an ice chest, and some good company! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Galveston

Nearshore Trophy Thrills

100% (7)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $700
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
Fishing in Galveston
trip description for State Water Slam in Galveston

Embark on an action-packed adventure to near-shore rigs and wrecks with Captain Michael to target monster bull drum, ling, and king fish! You can choose to be out on the water for 4 hours (a half-day) or 6 hours (a full day) depending on how much fishing you want to do. These trips host up to 6 people. Captain Michael will provide all of the fishing bait and tackle. All you need to bring is a Texas saltwater fishing license for those over 16 years of age, sunscreen, as well as some food and drinks. Let your mind escape from daily responsibilities and just have fun fishing. Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Galveston

State Water Slam

100% (6)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,000
Fishing in Riviera Beach
Fishing in Riviera Beach
Fishing in Riviera Beach
trip description for Riviera Beach Luxury Half Day in Riviera Beach

If you're looking for a deep sea fishing charter in Riviera Beach, FL, look no further than Captain Peter and his 50' Viking sportfisher. With years of experience fishing the Gulf Stream, Captain Mike knows all the best spots to chase down some big game fish! On this deep sea fishing charter, you can expect to target a variety of species, including Sailfish, Marlin, Blackfin Tuna, Mahi Mahi, and more. Captain Mike will provide all the necessary equipment, including top-of-the-line rods, reels, and bait, so you can focus on reeling in the big one. His 50' Viking sportfisher is a luxurious and comfortable vessel, with plenty of space for you and your group to relax and enjoy the offshore scenery. With twin MAN engines, you'll be able to reach the deep waters quickly. This vessel also has a fully equipped interior with A/C, two seating areas and a full galley. Two Sub-Zero Fridges will keep any snacks and drinks you bring nice and cold while you fish. In the rear cockpit you will find a fighting chair, live well and all the equipment needed for a fun and relaxing day of fishing. Up on the flybridge there is plenty of seating area and a great 360-degree view of everything around you, whether you want to admire the scenery or watch the spread when trolling for Wahoo, Tuna and Sailfish. On the flybridge you will see the helm area that has an array of electronics to help us find the best locations to fish and increase our chances of landing the ‘big one’! On this trip, you'll primarily be trolling, running dressed baits and lures to attract bites from migrating pelagic fish. These fast ocean swimmers hit hard and fight long, so bring your A-game! Target species such as Marlin, Sailfish, and Mahi Mahi are world-famous, and for good reason. Plus, after you get them on board, you can take some home for an amazing meal. Captain Mike is a seasoned angler and will provide expert guidance and instruction throughout your trip. He'll work with you to cater the experience to your experience level and preferences, so you can make the most of your time on the water. Whether you're an experienced angler looking for a challenge or a beginner looking to catch your first big game fish, Captain Mike and his 50' Viking sportfisher are the perfect choice for an unforgettable deep sea fishing charter in Riviera Beach! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Riviera Beach

Riviera Beach Luxury Half Day

100% (4)
50 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
Fishing in Orange Beach
trip description for Trolling and Chilling- 40' in Orange Beach

On this laid-back trip, Captain Seth will show you and your angling buddies an unforgettable day of fishing off Orange Beach, Alabama. Orange Beach is a top-tier fishing destination, and you’ll be able to target Bonito, Jack Crevalle, King Mackerel, Red Snapper, Spanish Mackerel, and Wahoo! On this 4-hour adventure, you’ll be fishing aboard Captain Seth's 40-foot Michael Fits sportfisher. She's a beauty, and equipped with air conditioning, GPS, fishfinder, Kitchen, Refrigerator, Outriggers, and an icebox, among other amenities. Captain Seth will provide rods, reels, tackle, lures, live bait, and fishing licenses. Don’t forget to bring food and drinks for the day, a cooler to take home your day’s catch, sunscreen, and a hat. Captain Seth can customize a memorable trip for anglers of every age and ability. Our determination to catch fish is only surpassed by our commitment to our clients’ safety and comfort. Let the good times roll with Captain Seth! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Trolling And Chilling- 40'

100% (12)
40 ft 1 - 15 People From $1,150
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing in Destin

Head further offshore to explore the Destin's prolific Gulf waters anywhere from 18-20 miles offshore! These 6 hour trips give Captain Kyle more time to implement a couple different techniques to catch different pools of species. Trolling these offshore waters can solicit a Mahi, Wahoo, Mackerel, or even a Tuna bite, while bottom fishing Captain Kyle's favorite reefs and offshore structure opens the door to a plethora of species like Grouper, Snapper, and Big Jacks. This trip is a great experience to catch some fish to bring home or to reel in just for a photo! You'll be fishing aboard captain Kyle's 40-foot Bertram Widebody Classic Sportfish that's powered by twin Cummins turbo desels! She has been customized with underwater fins to improve on an already superior stable ride. For your comfort during your trip, the boat is furnished inside the fully Air-Conditioned salon which includes a bathroom, microwave, DirecTV on the flatscreen television inside and Sirius Satellite Radio which can be enjoyed inside and out. She is also customized with a tower, downrigger, outriggers, and a large live well. For the nighttime hours, she has above water illumination as well as powerful underwater lights. No expense has been spared with a full array of state-of-the-art electronics, and top-notch fishing tackle. Captain Kyle and his crew will provide all the rods, reels, and tackle. All you need to bring is any food or drinks you might want. Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Destin

Destin Trolling & Bottom Fishing

100% (12)
40 ft 1 - 6 People From $1,920
See All Kingfish Trips

Everything to Know About Booking a kingfish fishing charter

What are the best kingfish fishing charters?

Why should I book a kingfish fishing charter with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 779 kingfish trips, and the most popular trips are Galveston Inshore Jetty Trip guided by Corey, Destin Rod-Bender guided by Robert, and Destin Offshore Thrills guided by Taylor.

Our guides are rated a 4.87 out of 5 based on 3504 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly kingfish guides / fishing lessons? Check out our beginner and family friendly kingfish guides.

What types of kingfish fishing charters are common?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for kingfish as well as nearshore fishing, inshore fishing, and jetty fishing.

The most common fishing techniques are trolling, bottom fishing, and heavy tackle fishing but live bait fishing and light tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much do kingfish fishing charters cost?

Prices for kingfish can range anywhere from about $700 to $4,200, but the average price for a half day trip for kingfish is $1,218. The average price for a full day trip for kingfish is $2,566.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for kingfish fishing?

The most popular season for kingfish fishing is summer, and most anglers book their trips 22 days in advance.

Do I need a fishing license for kingfish and what are the bag limits for kingfish?

See here for more information on kingfish fishing licenses, kingfish bag limits, and fishing season regulations for kingfish. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right kingfish rules and regulations.

What is a King Mackerel / Kingfish?


The king mackerel, commonly known as kingfish, uncommonly known as Scomberomorus cavalla, is a migratory member of the mackerel family and is native to the Atlantic Coast of the United States and the Gulf of Mexico down to the coast of Brazil.


Kingfish are one of the largest members of the mackerel family (smaller than its cousin the wahoo, for instance). They are a popular fish to target in the summer months and are great for nearshore fishing - you don’t need to head out too far from shore to catch them and they are usually around in good numbers.

The kingfish is similar in appearance to some other members of the mackerel family and at first glance have few distinct characteristics. They are a grey/silver fish with minuscule scales and small dorsal and pelvic fins. Juvenile fish can show yellow spots on their rear end similar to a spanish mackerel.

Kings are a popular fish for both sport and commercial operations, as it is both a powerful fish to catch that sometimes jumps and can go on some tough runs, and is also fairly abundant. They are also schooling fish, so once you’re on them, you’re on them.



### How big do King Mackerel / Kingfish get?


While they are known to get to be huge reaching 100 pounds, 70+ inches, and almost 20 years. Giant kingfish are sometimes called smokers because of their ability to peel line off of a reel so fast that it starts smoking. Kingfish are generally caught at much more reasonable weights between 10 and 30 pounds. Females are the bigger of the two genders, with males generally maxing out at around 15 pounds.

To spawn, females will shed between 50,000 and millions of eggs over the course of the spawning season and males will simultaneously release sperm, whose union is entirely by chance in the sea. Yearling fish can be 3-4 pounds and 24 inches fork length (the length from head to the split in their tail).

What's the biggest King Mackerel ever caught?

The current IGFA all tackle world record kingfish is 93 pounds, caught out of San Juan in 1999 by Steve Graulau. The Florida record stands at 90 pounds, and its not unusual for 70+ pound fish to be caught off Key West.

Where is the best place to catch Kingfish?


Kingfish can be found both inshore and offshore, but are frequently fished within a few miles in depths between 50 and 150 ft. They can be found around reefs, wrecks, and buoys, but can also swim solo when older and are frequently caught from the surf or around inlets.

They range all over the western Atlantic Ocean and are found from about North Carolina (although they can be found up to the Gulf of Maine) on the north end to Rio de Janeiro on the southern end. Florida is a great place to fish them because this is where stocks from both the Atlantic and the Gulf mingle, and they can both be found in good numbers.


Because kingfish are migratory, their numbers will vary based on the season and location, but the big kingfish generally return to the same areas year over year (for those curious, generally Texas, Louisiana, and Florida).

When should I catch Kingfish?

In the US, the season is always open for king mackerel, assuming you can find them! That being said, there is often a size limit of between 24 and 27 inches depending on the state, and a bag limit per angler per day of 2 for Florida, Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi, and 3 for the Carolinas and Georgia.

Since kingfish prefer warmer waters, they can be year round on the southern half of Florida but across the Gulf and further up the Atlantic the fishing will be best in the summer months.


There are two big groups of migratory kings that have been identified, with one preferring the Texas coast in summer to mid-Florida November to March. An Atlantic group engages in a similar pattern, spending time in the Carolinas and Virginia in the summer months and the other side of Florida in the winter.

How do you catch Kingfish?


Kingfish are schooling fish so when the bite heats up, you’re liable to get a number of fish to the boat, but its important to make sure you have the right gear - many an angler has gotten broken off by their sharp teeth. You also want to make sure you have enough line so you don’t get spooled by a particularly large king as they are known to go on big runs.

Most king mackerel are caught trolling, and often bite the tail, so make sure you set a hook in the back of your lure. Kingfish have not only sharp teeth but also good eyesight, meaning you want some sort of wire leader to avoid getting broken off but you want to keep it thin enough so it doesn’t spook any fish. Kingfish can be caught on live bait or lures. 


Are Kingfish good to eat? What are the best King Mackerel recipes?


Kingfish meat is commonly eaten but is not known to be a great food option. The meat is darker and leaner, and falls somewhere in the middle on the taste scale. Plenty are taken and eaten, but it is not particularly sought out as a dinner option. The meat tends to be a bit oily, so can be smoked well. It is also frequently marinated and grilled.

Recent Reviews

  • ★★★★★
    Chris & Will were great. Knowledgeable, professional, engaging and put us on the fish. Would highly recommend this charter.

    Doug B. | September 11, 2024

    Trip: Key West Sportfish Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Joe and Chaz on the Cricket 2 will put you on some fish! We had a terrific time reeling in bluefish and spanish mackerel. I highly recommend booking your next trip with them.

    Erik P. | September 10, 2024

    Trip: Cricket II - The JAWS boat

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip with a great captain! We had a blast!

    Kristie B. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Gulf Shores Hook-Up

  • ★★★★★
    Had a blast with Steven would definitely go again!

    Trevor P. | September 9, 2024

    Trip: Inshore Saltwater Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Had an awesome trip despite the constant rain. Caught some nice reds and black drum. Overall an awesome experience with some nice fillets to boot.

    Cody G. | September 7, 2024

    Trip: Orange Beach Hook up!

  • ★★★★★
    Amazing trip! Lots of laughs and tons of fish! We even got our target fish which was tarpon. Captain mark is great and we will definitely use him again.

    Angela F. | September 6, 2024

    Trip: Everglades Inshore Trip

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great time out on the water with Captain Scott!

    Travis A. | September 4, 2024

    Trip: Offshore Grocery Run and Trophy Hunt

  • ★★★★★
    We did not go with Captain Robert. We went with Captain Tim. Captain Robert called me the day before the trip to confirm the fishing trip and our plan for the day. We were to meet at the dock at 6:00. The day of the trip, Captain Robert texted me and said we would leave at 7:00 due to the weather. On the way to the dock, a got a call asking were we still going on the trip. I informed them that we were on the way and I was told to be there at 7:00. When we got to the dock, we had two Captains waiting on us. We were informed that there was a mix up and we were going with Captain Tim. We had to stop and get fuel, ice and bait. We trolled near shore and hooked up with a big fish. A dolphin took our fish. My oldest son got seasick. Water was very rough. We returned my son to shore. We started trolling again. Every time we hooked up with a decent fish, dolphins got our catch. We did catch several Bennita's. Alarm on boat started going off. We checked the motor and Captain called to attempt to trouble shoot. Both motors would not start. Finally got motor started but ran with one motor. We could not go to better bottom fishing spot due to running one motor. We came in early due to one motor and alarm going off constantly. Terrible experience! Screwed up from the start.

    Terry H. | September 3, 2024

    Trip: 4-8 hr Offshore Fishing (Federal)

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip caught a ton of fishes

    Agustin B. | September 3, 2024

    Trip: State Water Trolling/Bottom Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    We had an amazing time! We had a special interest in Mahi and captain brad and his first mate made it happen. It was great, they made us feel super comfortable and confident. We were able to score Mackerel, Yellowtail and we latched on 3 Mahi’s at the very very last second! Super lucky. Brad and his first mate made it happen! We were able to leave with 2 mackerels and 2 Mahi Mahi’s! Thank you! You won’t regret booking with them. Special experience.

    María A. | September 2, 2024

    Trip: Key West Mixed Bag Trip

  • ★★★★★
    It was a great trip. Three of us fished comfortably for a half day. Mother Nature provided the fish, and Nick provided a great atmosphere. Easy to talk to and gave some good local recommendations, will look to book with Nick again in the future.

    Michael L. | September 2, 2024

    Trip: Reel Salty Sportfishing

  • ★★★★★
    Corey was great. My boys (7 & 10) and I had a great time. Corey was incredibly patient and knowledgeable. Highly recommended!

    Bo F. | September 1, 2024

    Trip: Port Aransas Inshore Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    Chuck is an awesome guide, captain and fisherman! He is personable, friendly and patient. Thanks for a wonderful afternoon. We hope to be back next year!

    Rowena A. | September 1, 2024

    Trip: Nearshore Sportfish Roundup

  • ★★★★★
    Great days fishing! Jay got us on the fish right away and Jake was super helpful on deck!

    Danny C. | August 30, 2024

    Trip: Summer Offshore Run

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Brad was awesome! We were part of his crew and although it wasn’t the greatest of water conditions, we still ended the day with fun fishing. Would highly recommend Brad. We will be back

    Bryan S. | August 29, 2024

    Trip: Deep Sea Fishing

  • ★★★★★
    I picked the right guide for sure. Corey stayed in touch with me and went out of his way to plan my fishing trip. He put us on lots of fish and I had a blast. I will definitely be booking Corey again.

    Mike D. | August 28, 2024

    Trip: Port Aransas Inshore Adventure

  • ★★★★★
    James our captain today did a great job in finding an assortment of fish for us. He worked diligently to assure we had lots of action. It was a great day on the water and we will return next year.

    Daniel T. | August 27, 2024

    Trip: Inshore/Nearshore Experience

  • ★★★★★
    My family thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The captain for the boat and the young man that helped them with catching the fish was wonderful and worked so hard to help everyone have an excellent time. We will definitely use this company again for fishing trips!

    Lendy H. | August 25, 2024

    Trip: Fish OBA

  • ★★★★★
    Outstanding! Worked hard to find fish, great adventure

    Mark H. | August 24, 2024

    Trip: Chasing Monsters - 24’ Pathfinder

  • ★★★★★
    Crew was Tristin & Gabby Rate 10 out 10 Both where the best crew I have had over

    Bob S. | August 23, 2024

    Trip: 4 hr PM trolling trip

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