The Southern Kingfish is lighter in color and lacks the long first dorsal spine of the Northern kingfish. Overall, they are silvery in color with a tannish top, faint dark bars on the sides and a white belly. The have one barbel ("whisker") on their lower jaw. The Southern Kingfish has lighter less pronounced markings when compared to the Northern kingfish. The bars never form a V-shape.
Diet: small shrimps, crabs, marine worms, crabs, and small fishes
Habitat & Range
Southern Kingfish prefer sand and sandy-mud bottoms inshore in estuaries and offshore out to depths of about 30 feet. They feed on small shrimps, crabs, marine worms, crabs, and small fishes.
Where to Fishing
Atlantic Ocean
Frequently Asked Questions
Fishing Tips
Southern Kingfish do not take to artificial lures well. Pieces of squid, clams, or bloodworms are often used with small hooks on bottom rigs fished just past the breaking waves on the beach.
