Northern Kingfish are easily distinguished by their unique coloration of shades of brown in wide, vertical stripes, and high, slender dorsal spines.

Kingfish generally populate the back bays later in the summer, with fishing usually best in August and September. They are bottom feeders with small mouths, requiring light tackle, small hooks and soft baits. The best fishing can be had by anchoring up in 8 to 15 feet of water and using clam chum. Fish hooks in the #1 size range with small clam strips or blood worms.

Kingfish are very strong fighters and are excellent table fare.