The Kingfish Mayhem Pro Series is a competitive fishing tournament held across multiple states
The Kingfish Mayhem Pro Series is a tournament circuit where anglers compete in kingfish events in different coastal locations throughout the year. The series brings together recreational and professional fishermen who want to test their skills against other competitors and pursue kingfish in organized events. Each tournament in the series follows its own rules and schedule, and entry requirements vary by location and event.
Because the series runs across different states, the specific tournaments, dates, and rules change from year to year. If you are interested in competing, you will need to find the current schedule and contact the tournament organizers directly — they are the only source for accurate information about entry fees, boat requirements, weigh-in procedures, and prize structures for the events happening near you.
Key Takeaways
- The Kingfish Mayhem Pro Series consists of separate tournaments held in different coastal states, each with its own organizers and rules.
- Entry requirements, fees, and tournament dates vary by location and change year to year, so you need to contact the specific event organizers for current details.
- Most kingfish tournaments require a registered boat, a captain's license or equivalent documentation, and proof of insurance before you can enter.
- Kingfish tournaments typically have strict rules about tackle, bait, and fish handling to ensure fair competition and fish safety.
- Prize money and awards depend on the specific tournament and how many anglers enter, so payouts are not fixed across the series.
How to Find the Current Tournament Schedule
The Kingfish Mayhem Pro Series does not maintain a single central website or phone number for all events. Instead, each tournament is organized independently by local fishing clubs, charter boat associations, or tournament companies in that state. To find out what events are running, start by searching for "Kingfish Mayhem Pro Series" along with the state where you want to fish — this will usually lead you to the organizers running events in that region.
Once you find an event organizer, contact them directly by phone or email to ask about the upcoming tournament schedule, entry deadlines, and what you need to bring or provide to register. They will tell you the exact dates, the location where boats will launch and weigh in, and whether the tournament is open to all anglers or restricted to certain boat types or experience levels.
What You Need to Enter a Kingfish Tournament
Most kingfish tournaments require you to have a registered, insured boat and a valid captain's license or boating safety certificate. Some events allow you to fish as a crew member on someone else's boat instead of captaining your own — if that interests you, ask the organizers whether they allow non-captain entries and how to find a boat to join.
You will also need to provide proof of boat registration and insurance before the tournament begins. The organizers will ask for these documents when you register. Some tournaments also require a fishing license for your state, so check with the organizers about what licenses you need before the event date.
Bring your own fishing tackle, rods, and reels unless the tournament specifies otherwise. Most kingfish tournaments allow standard saltwater fishing gear, but some events have restrictions on rod length, reel type, or line weight — the organizers will explain these rules when you sign up.
Understanding Tournament Rules and Fish Handling
Kingfish tournaments have specific rules about how fish must be caught, handled, and weighed. Most require that all fish be caught on rod and reel — no nets, traps, or other methods. Fish are usually weighed whole and alive or freshly dead, depending on the tournament's rules. Some events disqualify fish that show signs of being caught before the tournament started, so the organizers will inspect your catch carefully.
The tournament will specify what times you can fish, where you can fish, and what bait or lures you can use. Some events restrict fishing to certain areas or ban live bait in favor of artificial lures. Read the full rule sheet before you enter so you know exactly what is and is not allowed — breaking a rule can result in disqualification or loss of prize money.
Fish handling matters for both fair competition and the fish's survival. Most tournaments require that you keep fish on ice or in a live well immediately after catching them, and that you handle them gently during weigh-in. If a fish dies before weigh-in due to poor handling, it may be disqualified or penalized depending on the rules.
Entry Fees and Prize Structures
Entry fees for kingfish tournaments vary widely depending on the event, the location, and the prize pool. Some tournaments charge a flat entry fee per boat, while others use a combination of entry fees and optional side pots where anglers can pay extra for a chance at additional prize money. The organizers will explain the fee structure when you register.
Prize money is usually divided among the top finishers — first place gets the largest share, second place gets less, and so on. Some tournaments also award prizes for the largest fish, the most fish caught, or other categories. The total prize pool depends on how many boats enter, so the exact payout amounts are not known until registration closes.
What Happens at Weigh-In
Weigh-in is the official end of the tournament fishing day. You will bring your boat to a designated location — usually a marina or boat ramp — where tournament officials will inspect and weigh your fish. Bring your catch in a cooler or live well, and be ready to show your fish to the officials before they are weighed.
The officials will record the weight of each fish and check that it meets the tournament's minimum size requirement. Some tournaments allow you to keep your fish after weigh-in; others require that fish be released or donated. Ask the organizers what happens to the catch after weigh-in so you know whether you can take your fish home to cook.
Results are usually posted the same day or the next day. Prize money is typically distributed within a few weeks after the tournament ends, either by check or direct deposit depending on the organizers' process.
Preparing Your Boat and Gear
Before the tournament, make sure your boat is in good working order. Check that your engine runs smoothly, your navigation equipment works, and your safety gear is on board — life jackets, a first aid kit, and a radio or communication device. Kingfish tournaments often take place in open water, sometimes far from shore, so reliable equipment is essential.
Stock your boat with ice, coolers, and live wells if you have them. Bring extra water and snacks for yourself and any crew members. Pack your fishing tackle organized and ready — you do not want to waste time looking for the right rod or lure when fish are biting. Some anglers bring backup rods in case one breaks during the tournament.
Test your tackle before the tournament day. Make sure your reels are clean and properly lubricated, your line is fresh and not frayed, and your hooks are sharp. Kingfish are strong fighters and can break weak tackle, so do not skimp on quality gear or maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to own a boat to fish in a Kingfish Mayhem tournament?
No. Many tournaments allow you to fish as a crew member on someone else's boat. Contact the tournament organizers to ask whether non-captain entries are allowed and how to find a boat to join. Some fishing clubs and charter services post crew openings on their websites or social media pages.
What is the minimum size for kingfish in these tournaments?
Minimum size varies by state and by tournament. Most kingfish tournaments require fish to be at least 24 to 30 inches long, but some have different rules. The organizers will tell you the minimum size when you register, and you should also check your state's fishing regulations to make sure you understand the legal requirements.
Can I fish alone, or do I need a crew?
Most tournaments allow you to fish with just yourself and one other person, though some require a minimum crew size. Ask the organizers what the crew requirements are for the specific event. Having extra hands helps with boat handling, spotting fish, and managing multiple rods, but it is not always required.
What should I do if I catch a kingfish before the tournament officially starts?
Do not bring it to weigh-in. Most tournaments disqualify fish caught outside the official fishing window, and officials inspect fish for signs of being caught earlier. Only fish caught during the tournament's official start and end times count toward your score.
How do I know if there is a tournament happening near me?
Search online for "Kingfish Mayhem Pro Series" plus your state name, or contact local fishing clubs, charter boat associations, and marinas in your area. They often know about upcoming tournaments and can point you toward the organizers. You can also check fishing forums and social media groups where anglers discuss upcoming events.