Whiting

The Southern Kingfish (Whiting), Menticirrhus americanus

Large head with one barbel at tip of lower jaw. Flattened belly. Overall silvery color, tannish on top. Indistinct dark blotches on side.

SIZE

Usually less than a pound. Sometimes 2 pounds. World record 2 pounds, 13 ounces.

FOOD VALUE

Bland but good.

GAME QUALITIES

Runs well against very light tackle.

TACKLE AND BAITS

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Light spinning, casting and surf tackle. Best baits are sand fleas and pieces of shrimp or squid. Readily hits small jigs and flies. On bright, calm days, Whiting can be sight-fished at the very edge of the surf along many beaches.

FISHING SYSTEMS

Still Fishing; Casting.

OTHER NAMES

Southern Kingfish Southern Whiting King Whiting 

RANGE

All Florida coasts; more common in Atlantic.

HABITAT

Roams sandy bottom. Abundant surf fish.