Introduction
King – Surmai Fish is one of the most famous fish of Pakistan along with White Pomfret and Red Snapper. Slightly overrated, King – Surmai Fish has a very loyal fan following all over Pakistan.
Having Tuna like an lengthen body, King Mackerel is perfect for beautifully shaped slices for fry and grill. Having a very short shelf life, King Mackerel should be consumed fresh and is not recommended to freeze for longer.
Although King Fish Surmai is high in Omega-3 but has mercury content concerns. Large King Mackerel have mercury beyond acceptable limits and can negatively impact health.
Flavor Profile
King Mackerel has mild-sweet-tasting flesh with a firm texture, moderate fat, and large, circular flakes when cooked. The flesh has a beautiful pinkish-white color and remains white when cooked. Fillets have less bloodline than similar pelagic fish Such as Tuna, Mahi Mahi, etc.
Nomenclature
- English Name: King Mackerel, Indo-Pacific King mackerel, Seer Fish, & King Fish.
- Local Name: Surmai, Kar-gan & Gore
- Scientific Name: Scomberomorus guttatus
Habitat
King Surmai is a Sea fish that mainly lives in the Pelagic region, indian ocean and coastal waters from 15 m to 200 m—sometimes entering turbid estuarine waters.
Catching Method
Surmai Fish is caught using Gillnets and Hook lines.
Physical Attributes
Surmai Fish has loosely attached Scales on the body and can be easily removed during life. Body depth is less or nearly equal to head length, lateral line with many fine Auxillary branches anteriorly, almost straight to below middle of 2nd dorsal fin and gently bent downward to the middle of caudal peduncle. Intestine with 2 folds and 3 limbs.
Color
Blue on the back, silvery on the sides about 3 irregular rows of dark round spots (smaller than the eye) on the sides of the body, and spinous dorsal fin dark up to the eighth spine, white posteriorly, with a distal margin black.
Size
On average, the King Surmai fish size range is 1 kg to 5 kg per fish. However, Other sizes are also occasionally available.
Cutting Preferences
Surmai Fish is preferred for Slices and Boneless Biscuits, you can also see our Cutting Guide.
Approx. Cutting Yields
- Whole: 100%
- Gutted: 80%
- Headless and Gutted: 70%
- Slices: 70%
- Boneless: 45%
Best Cooking Methods
Surmai’s versatile appeal makes it perfect for:
Deep frying or pan-searing steaks for crispy outer layers
Curries or rich gravy-based dishes—it absorbs all the spices
Grilling or smoking, thanks to its central bone structure and robust texture
Health Benefits Backed by Research
High in Protein & Omega‑3s — great for heart, joints, and brain health
Rich in Vitamins D & B12 — boosts immunity and energy levels
Low in Mercury — safer than many large fish varieties
Low Calories & Carbs — ideal for healthier diets while being satisfying
King Fish (Surmai Fish) – FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. What is King Fish (Surmai)? | King Fish, locally known as Surmai fish, is a premium saltwater fish known for its firm texture, rich taste, and high protein content. |
| 2. What cuts are available for King Fish? | At Anbar Fish, you can order King Fish as whole, slices, boneless fillets, or boneless fingers, cleaned and packed to your preference. |
| 3. Is King Fish good for grilling? | Yes! Its firm texture and low fat content make it ideal for grilling, frying, baking, and even steaming. |
| 4. How is the fish delivered? | Your surmai fish is cut-to-order, hygienically packed in an insulated box with ice packs, and delivered fresh across Karachi. |
| 5. What is the typical size of King Fish? | King Fish usually ranges between 1 kg to 10 kg per fish. You can select the weight while placing your order. |
| 6. How long can I store it at home? | Keep in a refrigerator at 0–4°C and consume within 48 hours. For longer storage, freeze at –18°C for up to 3 months. |
| 7. Are there any health benefits of eating King Fish? | Absolutely! King Fish is rich in lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and supports heart health, brain function, and muscle strength. |
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