Dispatch Method:

Beware of the sharp teeth of all mackerel when handling them, even after they are dead. The eating qualities of these fish can be greatly improved if they are killed immediately by iki jime or a firm knock to the head before placing them in an ice slurry after bleeding. A firm knock on the head may be easier to implement to stun the fish first before attempting iki jime.

Fish Description:

• A large mackerel with silvery body with several faint vertical bars. Lateral line abruptly curving downward below second dorsal fin.
  
• Adults have no black area on the anterior part of the first dorsal fin. Juveniles with bronze spots in 5 or 6 irregular rows.

Fish Distribution:

• King mackerel occur throughout the tropical and subtropical parts of the western Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean from North Carolina to Brazil.
  
• Seasonally it may occur as far south as Rio de Janeiro, and occasionally as far north as the Gulf of Maine during the summer months.
  
• This species commonly frequents outer reef areas as well as dropoffs and other underwater structures.

Fish Size Common Length:

70 to 100 cm (28-36 inches) Maximum size around 180 cm (6 feet) and 45 kg (100 lb).