Surprise: Most anglers think of amberjack and grouper during December, but warmer conditions could produce king mackerel. They generally migrate along the coast in the spring and fall. But water temperatures in the 70s could lead to a late push.
Important factors: In the past when water temperatures were warmer, kingfish ate everything. And some of the biggest ones we have caught have been at about this time.
Bait schools: Schools of threadfin herring and pilchards are showing up along the beaches. They could be key to the appearance of kings. Sabiki rigs or a cast net can fill your well quickly. Watch for seabirds diving and working the surface. That shows where the bait is.
Another big indicator: The mullet migration is just about to start, also later than usual. Their roe is still slightly underdeveloped, as if they knew we would have a milder fall.
Dave Mistretta captains the Jaws Too out of Indian Rocks Beach. Call (727) 439-2628 or visit jawstoo.com.