Cobia (Rachycentridae)
Cobia
Rachycentron canadum
hard to catchMay–Aug
About the cobia
Cobia are the ultimate pier trophy. These large, powerful fish cruise near the surface past pier ends during their spring and summer migration. Spotting a cobia from the pier and getting a bait in front of it is one of the most adrenaline-pumping moments in fishing. They fight hard and taste incredible.
- offshore
- trophy fish
- sight casting
- summer migration
- premium
Where to find them
Piers that report cobia
Season, bait and average size as reported for each pier.
Juno Beach Pier
Biting- Months
- Mar–May
- Best bait
- Live eel, jigs
- Average size
- 30–50 in
- Pier record
- 130 lbs
Spring migration brings cobia within casting range. Watch for them cruising near the surface.
South Carolina rules
Keeping cobia
Cobia
saltwater- Minimum size
- 36"
- Maximum size
- None
- Daily bag limit
- 1
- Closed season
- May 1–31 south of Jeremy Inlet (032° 31.0’N)
FL
Boat limit 6
Vessel limit: 3/boat south of 032° 31.0’N, 6/boat north + federal • Rod & reel and gig only in state waters
Summarized from SCDNR. Limits change — confirm before you keep a fish at the SCDNR source.