Now's the time for cobia

Capt. Mike Myers battles a cobia to the boat

Capt. Tom Chaya of Dolphin Dreams Charters reported on Tuesday that cobia were around in 60-plus feet of water. Nearshore reefs are likely candidates for cobia, a strong gamefish that makes powerful runs and frequent jumps.

Cobia can be caught on spinning tackle with 15-to-30 pound test line. Cobia feed on shrimp, crabs, and assorted bait fish. Other standard baits are large plugs and 1- to 3-ounce jigs with white or yellow skirts. To prevent cut-offs, a 3-foot wire leader (No. 7 - No. 9) or a 60-to-80 pound leader is necessary.

Adult cobia are typically found in shallow waters of the gulf around buoys, anchored vessels, and floating debris.

Chaya caught his cobia to 30 pounds as he was chumming for kingfish. He free-lined a pinfish out of the boat. Cobia typically are spotted milling around a boat and resemble a shark. A cobia can be distinguished from a shark because of its dark color.

Of course, cobia deep fried in fingers or chunks, or smoked, can be excellent.