King Mackerel

If you're looking to tangle with King Mackerel in Alabama, Dauphin Island is a great launch point. The waters surrounding the island, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico, offer access to productive fishing grounds. The key is locating areas with abundant baitfish, such as pogies or cigar minnows. The late summer and early fall months typically provide the best opportunities, as the water temperatures are ideal and the mackerel are actively feeding before their migration. Trolling live bait or using diving plugs are effective techniques. A local's secret is to check for rips and color changes in the water, as these areas often concentrate bait and attract mackerel. Be sure to monitor water temperature, as Kings prefer warmer waters. When trolling, vary your speed until you find what the fish are responding to. Always check Alabama's saltwater fishing regulations for size and bag limits.