Cobia

[theangler]

[size 1]In an effort to help each other get on the fish, we will be adding a series of posts entitled by the type of fishing we are targeting and would like all users who wish to include their "favorite way to catch these fish", "favorite spots" (doesn't have to be exact), "favorite guides for these fish", "tackle tips", "recommended tackle", "beginner tips", "boating techniques" or any other information you feel would be helpful to other anglers targeting this type of fish.[/size]
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[byrumjr]

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Cobia

Rachycentron canadum

The Cobia is a strong powerful light tackle opponent. Capable of strong runs, occasional leaps, and bull-dogging, these flat-headed fish remind us of it's smaller cousin, the remora. The Cobia's popularity hinges on its battling attitude. Considering the fish can exceed 100 pounds, it can surpass the power of most other inshore fish.

Cobia can grow to six feet in length, being a dark brown along its back. A few dark stripes run between white ones along its sides, most noticeable in younger specimens. In shape, they appear to be like a jack pollock or small shark. When a Cobia is spotted near the surface, the sighting of it makes a fisherman's day. Cobia are known for their shallow water preference. Although they are not usually found on the flats, the fish like water less than 15 fathoms deep. Smaller individuals and schools of juveniles are found in harbor, bays and inlets. The larger fish tend to remain in the open ocean.

Like a few other salt water gamefish, Cobia are attracted to structure. This is not necessarily bottom structure, but can come in the form of a buoy, flotsam, logs, anchored boats, and even manta rays. If a Cobia is spotted near a ray or bell buoy, whatever it is the fish calls its territory, don't maneuver the boat too close. Keep a long cast's length away from it. Wait until the boat is even with the fish or passing it. Cast your artificial in front of the Cobia.

They feed on marine worms, squid, and a large variety of small baitfish. With such a catholic taste, Cobia can be taken on flies, jigs, swimmers, and spoons. They'll hit whole live baits and chunks.

Spinning reels that hold 250 yards of 17 to 20-lb mono are ideal, and rods should be in the 6 1/2 to 7-foot range. Medium-rated spinning rods designed for Popping, having backbone and a good-casting tip, will fill the bill. Casting rods in the same size-range work well, including most models rated as Medium Saltwater and Heavy Bass. The rod can be mated to an Ambaseur 6500C, a good casting reel but a little light for huge Cobia. The next Ambaseur size up-- the 7500-- is a better choice, beefier, and holds more line. It can be spooled with 20 to 25 lb line, yet is still small enough to retain the enjoyment of casting. Other favored reels are the Penn International 965; and for trolling only, the Shimano Charterboat Special. Fly Roding for Cobia is great sport in both the Atlantic and Pacific. Rods can by sized to local conditions, ranging from 10-weight to 12-weight. The most effective length is 9 feet. Fly reels should have ample capacity for dacron backing. Leader tippets of 16 to 20 lbs work well, and they should have an 80-lb shock leader before the fly.[/size][/font]
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