Kingcroaker
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 Northern Kingfish, Menticirrhus saxatilis
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The kingcroakers (formerly "kingfish") are a genus Menticirrhus of the family Sciaenidae.
[edit] Species
Menticirrhus americanus - Southern Kingfish: This species grows to 20 inches (51 cm) in length. Seven to eight dark bands mark the sides which shade from dusky above to almost white on the belly. They are found from the Western Caribbean Sea to Cape Cod over sand or mud in depths of at least 5 feet (1.5 m). This species is prized for its flesh, and is fished both commercially and recreationally.
Menticirrhus littoralis - Gulf Kingfish: The body is silvery in color and occurs in the surf zone from the Gulf of Mexico to Florida. In all other respects it is similar to M. americanus.
Menticirrhus saxatilis - Northern Kingfish: The size, habits, range and fishery is similar to M. americanus. The coloration is the same too, except for a dark V-shaped mark on the shoulder.
Menticirrhus undulatus - California Corbina
[edit] Fishing for Kingcroakers
Though not really considered a sportfish, Kingcroakers (also know as Whiting) are still fun to catch. The smallest specimens are found along beaches (there are also bigger ones along beaches), and the bigger ones are caught off docks. Whiting strike very hard, and the bigger specemins put up great fights. Cut shrimp, cut shiners, and sand fleas are very baits for whiting. If you fish with lures small jigs, small spoons, and sometimes soft plastics catch them. That's how you should fish for Kingcroakers.
[edit] Cooking Kingcroakers
Kingcroakers are very good eating. You can cook them almost anyway you want, but remember this: they are a little bland so add some flavor. A fish fry may be the best way to cook these fish. That is how you should cook Kingcroakers.
