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During the winter months they inhabit tropical waters and with the coming of spring begin their northward migration into the waters along the Texas Gulf Coast. As the the days cool in the fall, they reverse their direction and head south back to the tropics. The angler who has never tangled with a big "Smoker" King is in for a shock, both mentally and physically. They strike hard, and when they feel the hook, they take off on a scorching run. The reel stripping run of a big King is a startling experience. Stainless wire leaders are a must. The mouths of Kings are full of sharp teeth and they can cut an unprotected line almost instantly. Just about any bait in the 5 to 8 inch range will catch Kings, be it artificial or natural. Trolled feather jigs and large spoons work wonderfully. Natural baits such as cigar minnows, mullet, croaker, ribbon fish, and cut baits work just as well. When fishing offshore, keep an eye out for the shrimping fleet early in the morning. Shrimpers drag their nets at night and usually haul them in at daylight. The culling and cleaning of the nets, draw Kings and other fish together around the shrimp boats looking for an easy meal.
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The King Mackerel or "Kingfish" (Scomberomorus cavalla), is a
stream-lined, high speed gamefish. They lack swim bladders, and are thus forced
to stay on the move throughout their lives.