Cobia - Hilton Head's inshore treasure

Cobia are powerful fish popular among sport fishermen, and a prized table fare. Cobia are primarily sought by sight casting small Chartreuse jigs to migrating fish, or to fish following turtles or manta rays. They are a bycatch taken by commercial fishermen trolling for king mackerel, or by live menhaden slow-trolled near reefs and wrecks.

Cobia are hard fighting fish that demand a sturdy rod and reel setup. Your rod should be at least 7 feet in length with a medium-fast action tip. Since cobia are known for long runs that seem to never end, ensure that your drag system is well maintained and working properly. Conventional and spinning reels are favored for cobia. On average, line size should be in the 15-20 pound class with your leader doubling your line size. This obviously changes if you are fishing around heavy structure. Surf and pier fishermen opt to use a 9-11 ft rod with 20-30 lb line spooled on at approx 200 yards. Fly fishermen opt for 8½–9½ 8-10 weight rod and line; weight forward, floating line with 200 yards of 20# Dacron backing

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