King Mackerel

Chasing king mackerel near Highland Beach, Maryland, requires venturing offshore into the Chesapeake Bay and potentially beyond. While not as common as in more southern waters, king mackerel do migrate into the Bay during the warmer months, typically from late summer into early fall. Targeting them requires trolling with spoons, diving plugs, or live bait, often around schools of baitfish. A local tip is to focus on areas with temperature breaks or near channel edges where baitfish congregate. The mackerel in this region tend to be larger, migratory fish, and require heavier tackle and a boat capable of handling offshore conditions. Be prepared for a significant run when you hook one! Always check the Maryland Department of Natural Resources fishing reports for the latest information on king mackerel activity in the Bay, as their presence can vary significantly from year to year. Hiring a local charter captain experienced in offshore trolling is highly recommended for increasing your chances of success.