Species guide
How to catch Southern kingcroaker
Menticirrhus americanus
brackishsaltwatergame fishSciaenidae
The Southern kingcroaker is a popular game fish known for its active hunting behavior. It has a streamlined, fusiform body and can grow up to 50 cm in length. Also called Kingfish or Carolina whiting, it inhabits coastal waters in North America and the Caribbean.
Where they live
Found in brackish and saltwater environments along the Atlantic coast, Caribbean, and Gulf of Mexico, typically up to 40 meters deep.
Typical size
Up to about 50 cm
What they eat
- small shrimp
- macrofauna
- small fish
Best baits
- shrimp
- cut bait
- worms
Best lures
- soft plastic shrimp imitations
- jigs
- small spoons
How to fish for them
- bottom fishing
- surf fishing
- light tackle casting
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