facebook pixel

Damn Good Cobia Fishing Charters In Clearwater

Check real-time availability on Clearwater cobia fishing trips. Online booking | 4.93 / 5 stars | Guides from $450

Choose a Date
4.93/5 Average Rating

Experts Available 24/7

Licensed & Insured Guides

100% Weather Guarantee

Recently Booked Cobia Fishing Charters Near Clearwater, Fl

Fishing in Clearwater

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Coastal Clearwater Charter

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 5 People From $550
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Clearwater

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Tampa Bay Fishing - 22’ Aguasport

100% (2)
22 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Beach Family Fishing

NEW
23 ft 1 - 5 People From $350
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Offshore Fishing Frenzy

100% (2)
27 ft 1 - 6 People From $950
Fishing in Clearwater

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Classic

100% (2)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $550
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Clearwater

Deep Sea, Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Family Flats Fishing Clearwater Beach

NEW
23 ft 1 - 6 People From $350

Most Popular Types of Cobia Trips in Clearwater

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

More Cobia Fishing Charters Near Clearwater, Fl

Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
Fishing in Clearwater
trip description for Clearwater Nearshore Fishing in Clearwater

Get ready for an unforgettable fishing experience off the coast of Clearwater, FL! On this trip with Captain Alex, you'll be able to chase a ton of different nearshore species, including Cobia, Gag Grouper, Hogfish, Tripletail, Kingfish, and more. With his expertise and knowledge of the area, you'll be in the perfect spot to get after records numbers of a new personal best! As you venture farther offshore, you'll be surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Gulf of Mexico. But the real excitement is in the water, where the biggest and most challenging fish are waiting to be caught. Cobia are known for their strong runs and delicious fillets, and are one of the most popular fish to catch in the Gulf of Mexico. With Captain Alex's guidance, you'll be targeting them using live bait or artificial lures, depending on what's biting. Kingfish, also known as King Mackerel, are speedsters that can reach top speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. They are notorious for their long, powerful runs, making them a favorite among experienced anglers. Throughout the day, you'll be using top-of-the-line fishing equipment and techniques to try to land these fish. There's no better feeling than hooking, fighting, and finally beating a big trophy! So if you're ready to test your skills and reel in some of the most exciting game fish in the Gulf of Mexico, book your offshore fishing trip with Captain Alex today! Read More

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Clearwater

Clearwater Nearshore Fishing

100% (4)
31 ft 1 - 6 People From $800
Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

3/4 Day

NEW
22 ft 1 - 2 People From $700
Fishing in Apollo Beach
Fishing in Apollo Beach
Fishing in Apollo Beach
trip description for Tampa Bay Flats, Mangroves & Bay in Apollo Beach

Looking for a great time fishing in Tampa Bay? Well look no further! With over 20 years fishing the waters of Tampa Bay and the surrounding areas, Captain Tommy strives to offer you the best experience catching all Tampa Bay has to offer. Different times of year present opportunities at a multitude of species in this year round fishery. Climb aboard a well equipped Action Craft 2410 Tournament Edition center console with custom tower that can get anywhere in the Bay. Anyone and everyone is welcome aboard With a limit of 4 customers you and your crew will be sure to have Captain Tommy's full attention. Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Tampa Bay Flats, Mangroves & Bay

100% (1)
25 ft 1 - 4 People From $600
Veteran Operated
This trip is managed / operated by a veteran of the US armed forces.
Fishing in Ruskin
Fishing in Ruskin
Fishing in Ruskin
trip description for Inshore Fishing Slam in Ruskin

Head out with Captain Christopher for a half, 3/4, or full day of fishing around the inshore waters and flats of Southshore Tampa Bay. Captain Christopher will put you where you need to be to put Redfish, Trout, Tarpon, and Snook on the line. You will mostly use light tackle and spinning techniques to target your fish. Captain Christopher operates out of a custom built 21’ Clearwater 2000CC bay boat. This modern vessel allows for a comfortable drift through the Tampa Bay flats. There’s a lot of fishing space and a shaded T-top for hot summer days. The boat also has a Bluetooth stereo, so feel free to bring your favorite playlist! Read More

Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Inshore Fishing Slam

97% (36)
21 ft 1 - 4 People From $350
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
Fishing in St. Petersburg
trip description for St. Petersburg Inshore Adventures in St. Petersburg

Get out there and enjoy a fun, laid-back light tackle sportfishing trip on beautiful Tampa Bay. On this trip with 27 year veteran Captain Wade, you'll be going after classic species including snook, redfish, seatrout, and more! There are multiple options for your adventure, so you can find what's best for you. On the three-hour charter, you'll get a great introduction to Tampa Bay and have time to catch multiple species of fish. This is ideal for visitors, first-timers, couples, seniors, or parents with kids, young or old. Of course, you'll be treated to professional, family-friendly service and courteous expert instruction. Four hours provides a greater opportunity to cover a larger area of Tampa Bay and catch more fish. Many people find this amount of time ideal for entertaining friends, clientele or hosting bachelor parties. Have a blast, while competing to see who catches the biggest fish or most fish. Six hours is highly recommended to maximize your fishing adventure on Tampa Bay. This charter is ideal for avid anglers, and enthusiasts looking to hone their inshore angling skills. Experience fishing numerous grass flats, mangrove shorelines, oyster beds, creeks and back-bays. No matter the adventure you select, you'll have a great time fishing with Captain Wade! He provides premium spin, fly or plug fishing tackle such as G-Loomis, Bull Bay, Penn, Sage and Tibor. Live-bait, flies, artificial lures, ice, bottled drinking water and sunscreen lotion is also provided. He will also fillet, bag, and ice your catch, should you decide to keep some fish for lunch or dinner! His 24' Sheaffer, “regarded the best bay boat in the industry,” is ideal for fishing the inshore environment and was refurbished in 2022 with brand-new electronics and motor. Get out there and enjoy all that Tampa Bay has to offer! Afishionado, "Always an Adventure." Read More

Flats, Inshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

St. Petersburg Inshore Adventures

100% (11)
24 ft 1 - 6 People From $400
Fishing in Hudson
Fishing in Hudson
Fishing in Hudson
trip description for Inshore Fishing Charter in Hudson

Join Captain Brian on an inshore fishing adventure off Hudson Beach, FL! Whether you're a beginner or an expert angler, Captain Brian is dedicated to exceeding your expectations. On tis trip, you can expect to chase a variety of inshore fish species such as Snook, Redfish, Black Drum, and Sea Trout. If you're looking to venture a little deeper, you can also troll or bottom fish for Mackerel and Grouper. In the summer months, Tarpon also migrate through the waters off Hudson. Just let Captain Brian know which species you'd like to target and he'll make it happen! Captain Brian's 24' Tidewater is equipped with all the gear you'll need for a successful day on the water, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait. All you need to bring is your favorite snacks and drinks, sun protection, and camera to capture your memories! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter near Clearwater

Inshore Fishing Charter

100% (1)
24 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
See All Cobia Trips in Clearwater

Need a Place to Stay?

Everything to Know About Booking a Clearwater cobia fishing charter

What are the best cobia fishing charters in Clearwater?

Why should I book a cobia fishing charter in Clearwater with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 52 cobia trips in Clearwater, and the most popular trips in the area are Coastal Clearwater Charter guided by Cameron, Tampa Bay Fishing - 22’ Aguasport guided by Nick, and Clearwater Beach Family Fishing guided by Michael.

Our guides in Clearwater are rated a 4.93 out of 5 based on 3305 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly cobia guides / fishing lessons in Clearwater? Check out our beginner and family friendly cobia guides in Clearwater.

What types of cobia fishing charters are common in Clearwater?

Deep Sea fishing is the most popular type of fishing for cobia in Clearwater as well as inshore fishing, nearshore fishing, and flats fishing.

The most common fishing techniques in Clearwater are bottom fishing, live bait fishing, and artificial lure fishing but cut bait fishing and trolling are popular as well.

How much do Clearwater cobia fishing charters cost?

Prices for cobia in Clearwater can range anywhere from about $450 to $1,450, but the average price for a half day trip for cobia in Clearwater is $609. The average price for a full day trip for cobia in Clearwater is $1,243.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for cobia fishing in Clearwater?

The most popular season for cobia fishing in Clearwater is spring, and most anglers book their trips 12 days in advance.

Do I need a Clearwater fishing license for cobia and what are the bag limits for cobia in Clearwater?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Clearwater, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Clearwater. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Clearwater.

What is cobia in Clearwaterall about?

In Clearwater, Florida, cobia fishing is a beloved pursuit among anglers drawn to the bountiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Cobia, prized for their impressive size and fighting spirit, are a highly sought-after species that inhabit both nearshore and offshore waters. Known for their distinctive appearance and tendency to travel in small groups, cobia offer anglers an exciting challenge and the opportunity to reel in a trophy fish.

One of the appeals of cobia fishing in Clearwater is the variety of techniques that can be employed to target these elusive creatures. Anglers often use a combination of sight fishing, trolling, and bottom fishing to entice cobia to bite. Sight fishing near buoys, markers, and along the flats can be particularly thrilling as anglers spot cobia cruising in the clear waters and cast lures or live bait to tempt them into striking. Trolling near reefs, wrecks, and other structure is another effective method for targeting cobia, while bottom fishing with live bait or jigs can yield success when fishing deeper waters.

The cobia season in Clearwater typically peaks during the spring and summer months, although these fish can be found in the area year-round. As water temperatures rise, cobia become more active and move into shallower waters nearshore, providing prime opportunities for anglers to hook into these powerful fish. Whether fishing from a charter boat or casting from the shoreline, the thrill of cobia fishing in Clearwater lies in the anticipation of encountering one of these prized gamefish and the exhilarating battle that ensues once hooked.

What are the most popular months to fish for cobia in Clearwater?

In Clearwater, Florida, the cobia fishing season brings excitement and anticipation to anglers eager to reel in these prized gamefish. The cobia season typically kicks off in the spring as these migratory fish begin their journey along the Gulf Coast. As water temperatures rise, cobia become more active and abundant in the nearshore and offshore waters off Clearwater, creating prime conditions for anglers to target them.

During the peak of the cobia season in Clearwater, which generally spans from late spring through summer, anglers can expect plentiful opportunities to encounter these powerful fish. Cobia often frequent areas near buoys, markers, and along the flats, as well as around reefs and wrecks offshore. This abundance of fishing grounds ensures that anglers of all skill levels have ample chances to hook into these hard-fighting fish and experience the thrill of battling a cobia.

As fall approaches and water temperatures begin to cool, the cobia season in Clearwater gradually winds down. While cobia may still be found in the area, their numbers and activity levels tend to decrease as they begin to migrate southward. However, for those willing to venture out, fall can still provide rewarding opportunities to target cobia in the waters off Clearwater before the season comes to a close, leaving anglers eagerly awaiting the next spring when cobia once again make their return to these productive fishing grounds.

What techniques are popular for catching cobia in Clearwater?

In Clearwater, Florida, mastering the right fishing techniques is crucial for anglers looking to hook into the prized cobia that inhabit the Gulf waters. One effective technique often employed by anglers is sight fishing, particularly in shallower waters near buoys, markers, and along the flats. Anglers scan the surface for cobia cruising in the clear waters, then cast lures or live bait to entice them into striking. This method requires patience, keen observation, and precise casting skills, but the reward of landing a cobia makes it well worth the effort.

Trolling is another popular technique used by anglers targeting cobia in Clearwater. Anglers deploy a spread of lures or baits behind the boat while moving at a slow to moderate speed, covering a larger area of water and increasing their chances of encountering active fish. Trolling near reefs, wrecks, and other structure is particularly effective for enticing cobia, as they often congregate in these areas in search of prey. This method allows anglers to adapt to changing conditions and locate cobia in different parts of the water column.

For anglers targeting cobia in deeper offshore waters, bottom fishing can be highly effective. Anglers use heavy tackle and sturdy rigs to drop live bait or jigs to the ocean floor near reefs, wrecks, and other underwater structures where cobia are known to inhabit. This method requires patience and persistence as anglers wait for cobia to strike, but the payoff of hooking into one of these powerful fish makes it a rewarding endeavor. Overall, mastering these cobia fishing techniques in Clearwater increases the likelihood of a successful day on the water and the chance to experience the thrill of battling one of these prized gamefish.

What other species are popular in Clearwater?

While cobia fishing in Clearwater, Florida, is undoubtedly popular, anglers have a wide variety of other species to target in these productive Gulf waters. One iconic species that attracts anglers to Clearwater is the grouper, with species such as red grouper, gag grouper, and black grouper abundant in the area. These hard-fighting bottom-dwellers can be found around reefs, wrecks, and ledges, providing anglers with thrilling battles and delicious fillets for the dinner table. Bottom fishing with live bait or jigs is a common technique for targeting grouper, offering anglers a chance to hook into these prized fish.

Another sought-after species in Clearwater is the snapper, including mangrove snapper and yellowtail snapper. These tasty fish are often found near structure such as reefs, bridges, and channel markers, where they congregate in search of prey. Anglers can use light tackle and live bait such as shrimp or pilchards to entice snapper to bite, providing a fun and rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.

For anglers seeking fast-paced action, Clearwater offers opportunities to target pelagic species such as king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, and mahi-mahi. These high-speed predators can be found patrolling the offshore waters, particularly around bait schools and areas of upwelling. Trolling with artificial lures or live bait, as well as casting or jigging near surface activity, are effective techniques for enticing these pelagic species to strike, providing anglers with an exhilarating angling experience. Whether targeting grouper, snapper, pelagic species, or the prized cobia, Clearwater offers a diverse and exciting fishery that caters to anglers of all interests and preferences.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Ike is a first class person very polite very nice guy me and my son had a great time will do it again when we come back.

    Chris H. with Ike C. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great fishing trip with Captain Wade. I booked our trip for my boyfriend’s 40th birthday for us, and 3 of his friends. Wade had everything we needed and more and provided a fun and laid back experience. We all caught a handful of fish, myself included, who had never fished before. I highly recommend!!

    Rachel B. with Wade O. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great morning on the water with Captain George. He put us over fish right away. First cast went into the cooler! He was very knowledgeable and courteous. We enjoyed our time on his boat!

    Lindy K. with George H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Please send our photos.

    William J. with Michael J. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Capt Mikey and Josh were great. Brought us out the fish quickly and were knowledgeable friendly and enthusiastic. Look forward to going out with them again

    Theo M. with Michael J. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a fun trip,caught a variety of fish plus a 34” snook.

    Gene S. with Michael J. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Wade was incredible. He exposed us to several different species of fish and was very educational. A huge manatee and even sting rays gave us appearances. Definitely worth while. Thank you sir!!!

    Jason V. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Friendly and informative Captain we had an enjoyable morning on the bay.

    Tim B. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Five stars! Fun trip!

    Ray E. with Christopher T. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain… Last minute trip…. 1st time saltwater fishing for my daughter…..knowledgeable and personable…. Found fish in tough conditions… Will book with him again…. Don’t think I can give a better endorsement than that!

    Joseph S. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great trip and great captain! Ike is the best!

    Justin C. with Ike C. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had an absolutely amazing time with Captain George! We had several other fishermen passing through that were going on about how it was a “tough day” but not with Captain George!! He put us right on the fish! He was always aware of his surroundings, watching the schools of bait fish, and making sure we were in the most optimal spot. He was very knowledgeable about all of the species we caught throughout the day. We were having such a blast that we added an extra hour to onto our trip, which is when he put us on to the BIGGEST Spanish Mackerel I’ve ever seen!! Just to top it off, he was also very kind and caring. He never lost patience with me when he kept having to cast my pole into difficult spots, and he made sure to remind us to drink plenty of water and reapply sunscreen. At the end of the trip, as he was cleaning our fish, I began to overheat and he knew EXACTLY what to do. He stayed calm, let us stay for a while as I regained my strength, and even checked on me later on in the day. What an amazing experience, captain, and day!! 10/10! We will be fishing with Captain George when we are back this way, and will be referring all of our friends and family!

    Lauren H. with George H. of St. Petersburg, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Wade was great. Worked hard and put me in lots of fish! Will definitely call him again!

    Brian G. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Awesome experience!! Alex and Tom where great!

    Brandi D. with Alex S. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Thanks, Jonathan! It was a great experience for me (although seasickness played a part in our trip!!) and my grandson. He definitely wants to do it again with you next year and we already booked our condo so we'll see you next year. By the way, we cooked some of the fish and let's just say, DELISH!! Thanks again, Terry & Max

    Terry B. with Alex S. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had Captain Brett for our day of fishing. What an amazing day we had. We caught multiple fish we could keep and multiple fish we couldn’t keep. We had the experience of seeing multiple species that we didn’t catch. We saw a bull shark, a Goliath Grouper, a loggerhead turtle, and a manatee. We hooked in to a giant. Watching Brett and my brother work together to get this fish in was spectacular. The team work that it took as well as the skill. He was also great for those of us that were less experienced. He was so pleasant and kind while helping me change my techniques so I caught fish verses continuously just feeding the fish. He did great with my teenage son. Brett is a great communicator. We will go with Brett again.

    Shellie K. with Cameron F. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great time! Cameron was personal and knew what he was doing! We would recommend!

    Justin M. with Cameron F. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great afternoon of fishing with Captain Wade in Tampa Bay; catching snook and redfish. Wade knows the bay well and he put us in the right spot for the conditions. We were originally scheduled for a Sunday morning trip but when the weather was not looking favorable, he offered to put in an extra long day and take us on Saturday afternoon. He works well with all skill levels and I highly recommend him for your next fishing trip!

    Ben R. with Wade O. of Tampa, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Nick is a pro!!! We had so much fun and he put us on a variety of fish. Can't wait to eat our trout for lunch now.

    Ken P. with Nick H. of Clearwater, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great time with a great guy. He's very personable and easy to talk which makes the experience even better. Definitely a next year excursion!

    Terry B. with Alex S. of Clearwater, Florida

What's biting in Clearwater?

View Cobia Fishing Reports from our damn good guides.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

Our guides are Damn Good Guides, which means they’re licensed, insured and vetted by our team of outdoor experts who know them on a first-name basis. We hand pick our Damn Good Guides, and our network spans all across the country and beyond.

The proof is in the pudding, and we’re incredibly proud of our 4.9 / 5 average review score. Hit the button below to see more trip options:

See All Cobia Trips in Clearwater