Common names
Kingfish, Kingcroaker, Gulf whiting, Whiting, Whitefish
Gulf kingfish
Menticirrhus littoralis
- Saltwater
- Least concern
Max length19 in
Common length11.75 in
Length typeTotal Length
Max weight3 lb 1 oz
Min Depth33 ft
Water typeSaltwater
Fish info
IUCN Vulnerability status
Short description
The body of this species is elongated and moderately compressed, with a silvery to grey colouration and no darker mottling on the sides. It has a single barbel on its chin and a dorsal fin characterized by a deep notch. The inside of the gill plate is mostly pale, and the scales on the chest are noticeably smaller than those on the sides. Its mouth is subterminal, and the caudal fin varies by age, being pointed in juveniles and S-shaped in adults. The first dorsal fin tip is often dusky-brown, and the caudal fin (tail) has a blackish tip.
Habitat
Gulf, sandy or muddy bottoms, common in the surf. Sometimes enter estuaries.
Distribution
Western Atlantic: Virginia, USA and the continental coast of the Gulf of Mexico to Rio Grande del Sur, Brazil.
Behaviour
Kingfish are believed to favor high wave-action areas, such as sand bars, where crashing waves dislodge and suspend small crabs and other crustaceans, making them easier to catch. They feed on small fish and invertebrates, using their chin barbel to detect and locate prey along the bottom. Juvenile kingfish are highly adaptable, tolerating low salinity levels and often residing in estuaries as they grow.
Edibility
Considered to be excellent table fare, with a firm, flaky, mild-flavored white flesh. Larger fish can be easily filleted, while smaller fish are typically cleaned and cooked whole.
Lure suggestion
Kingfish are a popular target for anglers fishing from piers and beaches. Since they have relatively small mouths for their size, it’s essential to use appropriately sized bait and hooks. Fishing with bait accounts for the vast majority of kingfish catches, with bottom fishing using a top-and-bottom rig being the preferred method. When fishing in the surf, many anglers use rigs with small floats, often referred to as "doodlebug" rigs, at the end of the hook shank. These floats elevate the bait slightly, preventing crabs from snatching it. A size six hook is ideal and not too small for catching kingfish. Good bait: Bloodworms (best), fishbites bloodworms flavour, squid strips, small sand fleas, small crab bits, shrimp, cclam bits.
Similar species
Other similar species
Northern kingfish