King Mackerel

Head offshore from Tybee Island, Georgia, and you'll find some exciting king mackerel action. These speedsters are attracted to the plentiful baitfish schools that congregate around artificial reefs and natural structure. The warmer months, from late spring to early fall, are prime time for targeting kings. Trolling live bait, such as Spanish mackerel or menhaden, is a highly effective technique. Be sure to use wire leaders, as king mackerel have razor-sharp teeth. A key tip is to pay attention to water clarity; kings prefer clear water, so focus your efforts in areas where visibility is good. The Savannah River channel provides access to the ocean, but be mindful of shipping traffic. The king mackerel population off Tybee is robust, and you might even encounter some smoker kings exceeding 40 pounds!