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Seize The Bay Fishing Charters Fishing Charter in
Northern Kingfish Fishing in Weeki Wachee
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The Northern Kingfish (Menticirrhus saxatilis) is a member of the drum family (Sciaenidae) and the order Perciformes. These fish typically range from 10-18 inches in length and weigh between 1-3 pounds when mature. - Found in various coastal habitats including onshore, nearshore, offshore areas, and around reefs and wrecks. - Popular among anglers for their strong fighting ability despite their modest size.
Fishing Guide by Guide Tim Stout in December
Meet your Guide Tim Stout
- Seize the Bay with the best Fishing Charter!
Summary
Experience an action-packed Sunday July fishing charter in Weeki Wachee, FL with Seize The Bay Fishing Charters. Guide Tim Stout specializes in productive afternoon trips launching from Bayport Park Boat Ramp where the inshore waters are teeming with Northern Kingfish and other species. Our 4-hour PM trips combine sight fishing, live bait techniques, and topwater action to maximize your chances of success. Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out, you'll appreciate our local knowledge of these productive fishing grounds. With clear skies and perfect water conditions, we'll put you on fish while teaching you the best techniques for Weeki Wachee's diverse inshore fishery.
Fishing Charter with Tim Stout – Rates & Booking
Guide Tim Stout of Seize The Bay Fishing Charters on Sunday July offers 4-hour afternoon fishing trips targeting Northern Kingfish and other inshore species. These half-day charters are perfect for anglers looking to experience Weeki Wachee's rich fishing grounds without committing to a full day on the water. All necessary fishing equipment is provided, including quality rods, reels, tackle, and live bait. The trip accommodates up to 2 guests, making it ideal for solo anglers, pairs, or small groups wanting personalized attention from a licensed local guide with extensive knowledge of these waters.
Launching from the convenient Bayport Park Boat Ramp, you'll quickly access productive fishing spots where Guide Tim will share proven techniques including sight fishing, live bait fishing, and exciting topwater action. Book your afternoon adventure today to secure your spot on this popular charter—availability is limited, especially during peak summer fishing season.
Highlights of 4-Hour PM Trip with Expert Guide in Weeki Wachee – Target Cobia, Snook & Sharks
This afternoon fishing trip delivers immediate action in the beautiful inshore waters of Weeki Wachee. You'll benefit from Guide Tim's extensive local knowledge as he puts you on productive fishing spots around Bayport where Northern Kingfish and other species are actively feeding. The charter features a strategic mix of fishing techniques including sight fishing, live bait presentation, and topwater action to maximize your catch opportunities.
Perfect for anglers of all skill levels, this charter provides hands-on instruction tailored to your experience. You'll learn effective jigging, trolling, and both heavy and light tackle approaches—all while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery of Florida's Nature Coast. Previous clients have landed impressive catches, including Blue Catfish and 26-inch Redfish, demonstrating the quality fishing available on these afternoon trips.
Local Species Insights: Northern Kingfish
The Northern Kingfish (Menticirrhus saxatilis) is a prized catch in Weeki Wachee's inshore waters. This member of the drum family features a distinctive barbel under its chin and thrives in the sandy-bottom areas and near structures along the coastline. When targeting these fish, focus on areas with shell beds, channel edges, and deeper holes where they congregate to feed on crustaceans and smaller fish.
Northern Kingfish respond well to bottom-fishing techniques using fresh shrimp, cut bait, or small jigs bounced along the sandy bottom. During summer months in Weeki Wachee, these fish become more active during afternoon hours when water temperatures are optimal, making them ideal targets for our PM fishing charters. Their strong fight and excellent table fare make Northern Kingfish a favorite among both visiting and local anglers.
Plan Your Fishing Charter Day
For your 4-hour PM fishing charter, plan to arrive at Bayport Park Boat Ramp 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Dress for Florida weather with light, quick-dry clothing, a hat, polarized sunglasses, and sun protection. While all fishing gear is provided, you're welcome to bring your favorite rod if you prefer. A small cooler for drinks and snacks is recommended, and we'll supply a larger cooler with ice for your catch.
The boat comfortably accommodates 2 guests with ample fishing space and basic amenities. Guide Tim prioritizes both safety and success, providing detailed instruction throughout your trip. Afternoon departures typically begin at 1:00 PM, allowing you to enjoy cooler temperatures and often more active fish. After your successful day on the water, we'll clean your catch and provide tips for preparing your fresh fish.
Fishing in Homosassa: Northern Kingfish
The Northern Kingfish (Menticirrhus saxatilis) is a sought-after member of the Sciaenidae family, order Perciformes. This distinctive drum species features a dark, oblique bars pattern on its silvery sides and a characteristic barbel on its chin. In Weeki Wachee waters this July, these fish are particularly active in the nearshore areas where they feed on crustaceans and smaller baitfish.
Northern Kingfish Overview
Northern Kingfish are bottom-dwelling fish that anglers prize for their strong fighting ability despite their moderate size. They're part of the drum family, related to red drum and black drum, but with a more elongated body profile and distinctive markings. They're commonly targeted by both casual and serious anglers throughout their range.
Northern Kingfish Habitat and Distribution
These fish inhabit sandy and muddy bottoms in coastal waters, typically in depths from just a few feet to about 35 feet. They're found along the Atlantic coast from Maine to Florida and into the Gulf of Mexico. Around Weeki Wachee, they frequent nearshore waters, especially areas with structure like jetties, piers, and shell beds that attract their preferred prey.
Northern Kingfish Size and Weight
Northern Kingfish typically measure between 10 and 18 inches in length, with weights ranging from 1 to 3 pounds. While not the largest gamefish, their strong fighting ability makes them feel much bigger on appropriate tackle. Trophy-sized specimens occasionally reach the upper end of this range in the nutrient-rich waters of Florida's Nature Coast.
Northern Kingfish Diet and Behavior
These fish are primarily bottom feeders, using their sensitive barbel to locate prey in sandy or muddy substrates. Their diet consists mainly of small crustaceans like shrimp and crabs, various marine worms, and small fish. They're most active during dawn and dusk hours, which aligns perfectly with afternoon fishing charters that extend into early evening.
Northern Kingfish Spawning Season
Northern Kingfish typically spawn during the warmer months, with peak activity from late spring through summer when water temperatures reach the mid-70s. During this time, they congregate in nearshore waters, making them more accessible to anglers. In Weeki Wachee, July represents prime spawning season, which increases their feeding activity.
Northern Kingfish Fishing Techniques
The most productive method for targeting Northern Kingfish is bottom fishing with natural baits. Fresh shrimp, sand fleas, or cut squid on a simple bottom rig with just enough weight to hold bottom works exceptionally well. Light to medium spinning tackle with 10-15 lb test line provides the best balance of sensitivity and strength. In July, anglers around Weeki Wachee find them concentrated near deeper cuts adjacent to sandbars where cooler water provides relief during hot afternoons.
Northern Kingfish Is It Good to Eat?
Northern Kingfish are excellent table fare with white, flaky meat that has a mild, sweet flavor. The fillets are relatively small but delicious when prepared simply—breaded and pan-fried, broiled with herbs and butter, or grilled. They're a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, with lower mercury content than many larger gamefish, making them a healthy choice for regular consumption.
Northern Kingfish Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best bait for Northern Kingfish?
A: Fresh shrimp is the top bait for Northern Kingfish in Weeki Wachee waters, followed by sand fleas, small pieces of squid, and bloodworms. Artificial lures like small bucktail jigs tipped with shrimp can also be effective when bounced along the bottom.
Q: Where can I find Northern Kingfish near Weeki Wachee?
A: The best spots for Northern Kingfish around Weeki Wachee include sandy-bottom areas near Bayport, channel edges with moderate current flow, and areas with mixed bottom structure. They're typically found in 5-20 feet of water during summer months.
Q: Is Northern Kingfish good to eat?
A: Yes, Northern Kingfish is considered excellent table fare with white, flaky meat that has a mild, sweet flavor. Many anglers consider it one of the better-tasting fish in the drum family, perfect for simple preparation methods that highlight its natural flavor.
Q: When is the best time to catch Northern Kingfish?
A: In Weeki Wachee, the prime season for Northern Kingfish runs from late spring through early fall, with July and August being peak months. The best times of day are typically early morning and late afternoon into evening, making them perfect targets for PM fishing charters.
