Cobia, one of the most sought-after game fish in Florida’s waters, are known for their impressive size, powerful fight, and delicious taste. These elusive fish offer anglers a thrilling challenge in the waters off Stuart on the Treasure Coast. In this blog post, we’ll share expert tips and techniques for catching cobia with Hate 2 Lose Fishing Charters in Stuart, Florida.
Most people mistakenly identify the Florida fish Cobia as a Shark the first time they see its fins protruding from the water.
They’re a favorite among charter fishermen in Stuart, Florida because of their abundance, great taste and relative ease to catch.
Cobia Facts
- Species Name: Rachycentron Canadum
- Species Family: Rachycentridae
- Species Order: Perciformes
- Habitat: Onshore, Nearshore, Offshore, Reef and Wreck
- Weight: 10 - 80 pounds
- Length: 24" - 79"
- Also Known As: Black Salmon, Crab Eater, Lemon Fish and Sergeant
Appearance
- Long slender bodies
- Depressed head with protruding bottom jaw and shovel shaped snout
- Brown coloring fading to white underbelly with a darker strip running the length of their body
- Dorsal fin offset by smaller fins ahead of it
Diet
Due to their protein-rich diet, Cobia grow quickly, reaching over 40 inches in less than 2 years.
- Blue crab, stingray, baitfish including Pinfish, eel, hardhead Catfish
Habitat
- Buoys, navigational markers, reefs, wrecks, other large structures where bait-fish gather
Understand the Cobia Season
Cobia can be found year-round in Florida’s waters, but their peak migration season occurs between March and June. During this time, cobia migrate northward along the coast, offering prime opportunities for anglers to target these powerful fish.
Preferred Water Temperatures
- Between 68-72 degrees. As the seasonal cold fronts begin, Cobia work their way to South Florida.
- During the coldest months, most Cobia are in the Florida Keys. As spring hits, water temperatures along the beaches start to climb, and Cobia head back north.
Choose the Right Tackle and Bait
A versatile and robust tackle setup is essential when targeting cobia, as they are known for their strength and endurance. A medium to heavy spinning or conventional rod and reel with 30-50 lb test line is recommended. Live bait, such as pinfish, croakers, or eels, is highly effective for enticing cobia. Artificial lures, like bucktail jigs, large swimbaits, and topwater plugs, can also be successful.
Tips and Techniques for Catching Cobia
- Save eel and crabs for larger Cobia or ones that won't take other bait.
- If the fish is picky, a large shrimp will usually do the trick.
- For the pickiest Cobia, try a fresh, lively mullet. Pierce its heart and throw it out in front of the Cobia.
- Don't overlook the value of chumming for Cobia. A strategically placed chum line, a little farther offshore than other Cobia boats, will often attract Cobia that are swimming too deep for a sight-fishing fleet to target.
- Cobia are surprisingly strong and stubborn. Once hooked, Cobia will likely run straight toward the nearest marker. Don’t try to stop it on its first run! Loosen the drag and let it run. If the line gets caught, untangle it and resume the fight. The Cobia will become tired – at least until you bring it into the boat.
Hate 2 Lose Sport Fishing Charters
Planning a Florida Keys fishing trip for Cobia? Check out Hate 2 Lose Fishing Charters. With more than 30 years of experience fishing the Atlantic coast, the Florida Keys, and the Bahamas, our captain has the extensive knowledge and expertise to catch Cobia. Enjoy the Stuart, Florida Charter experience today.
Book Your Hate 2 Lose Sport Fishing Charter Today!
Visit us at Pirates Cove Resort and Marina:
- 4307 SE Bayview St Slip N4
Stuart, FL 34997
Call us at:
Up to 6 guests per trip only
1/2 day
$1,350
Yellow Fin
$3,000
