The wait is over. The big schools of king mackerel have left their wintering grounds off the Florida Keys and are heading up both coasts.

Gulf Coast anglers may be the first ones to get a taste of this reel screaming action. The Marco Island Kingfish Tournament, scheduled for March 12-13, should be a humdinger. The entry fee is just $395 a boat, and that investment puts you in line for the $10,000 first prize.

Anglers in Naples will also be hitting the water this weekend in the Fishin’ in Paradise Saltwater Classic, another big-money tournament that targets king mackerel.

Tournament organizers have worked out a special deal so anglers can fish both tournaments and win a total of $20,000. But the Naples anglers have the option of also fishing for dolphin and blackfin tuna, two of the top offshore species during the spring and summer months.

King mackerel tournament anglers are a competitive bunch. Many spend most of the year preparing for these spring tournaments. But anglers can also hire a guide and enter event. This is a quick and easy way to level the playing field. Contact the Florida Guides Association to get started. To learn more about kingfish tournaments, contact the Southern Kingfish Association.