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Cobia Fishing Charters

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Recently Booked Cobia Fishing Charters

Fishing in Miami

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Miami

Offshore Big Game Trip

100% (15)
36 ft 1 - 6 People $$
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Fishing in Orange Beach

Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Orange Beach

Orange Beach Inshore Bliss

95% (20)
24 ft 1 - 6 People $
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Fishing in South Padre Island

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in South Padre Island

South Padre Island Deep Sea

92% (13)
35 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
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Fishing in Islamorada

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Offshore Thrills

100% (12)
40 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Fishing in Destin

Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Half Day Trip - 44' Custom

100% (17)
44 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Islamorada

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Ocean Thrills With Captain Don

100% (12)
28 ft 1 - 4 People $$

Most Popular Types of Cobia Trips

“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

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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 Destin
Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
trip description for Offshore Blitz: Half-Day Dash in Destin

Are you looking for an amazing fishing experience in Destin Florida? Join Captain Jake on an outrageous offshore slam! Get casting off on his 27' Sea Hunt center console equipped with twin 400HP Yamaha engines that launch the boat at up to 45 knots. Although this boat is great for families, all passengers must be above five years old. All anglers will have the opportunity to hook into lunker Redfish, Kingfish, Snapper, and Grouper. Captain Jake can host up to 6 fishermen at a time aboard his vessel. If weather conditions are right he can take you a little further out to fight monster Amberjack and Cobia. Whatever you catch, be prepared to take home and cook! Captain Jake will clean and fillet your fish free of charge. To bring home a delicious dinner, you will be using live bait to bottom fish the depths of the Gulf. The live bait well stores a variety of different baitfish, so you can experiment with trying several techniques. You will also be trolling using the wireless trolling motor, so just sit back, enjoy the sunshine, and wait for the scream of the reels. Captain Jake will provide all rods, bait, and gear necessary for an amazing day on the water. Just bring food, drinks, or even snorkeling equipment for underwater sightseeing. Don't worry - there is a bathroom on board so the half day journey is as comfortable as possible. No matter your fishing level or knowledge, this trip will be a truly unforgettable experience. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Destin

Offshore Blitz: Half-Day Dash

100% (3)
27 ft 1 - 6 People $$
Damn Good
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Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
Fishing in Fort Lauderdale
trip description for Unforgettable Day Offshore in Fort Lauderdale

Are you ready for the fishing adventure of a lifetime? Join Captain Tim aboard his luxurious 45' Hatteras sportfisher and set out on the crystal-clear waters of Fort Lauderdale, FL in search of trophy Sailfish, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi, Tuna, Bonita, Shark, Marlin, Barracuda, Snapper, Grouper, Cobia, and Kingfish. These species are a blast to catch and offer something for every angler. As you cruise out to the best fishing spots, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the coast and a chance to spot dolphins and other marine life. Once you've arrived at your destination, it's time to troll some lines and let the fun begin! With Captain Tim's expert guidance, you'll be reeling in these sought-after species in no time. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner, you'll have an unforgettable day on the water with Captain Tim. You'll employ a few different techniques to land the fish, including trolling, bottomfishing, and even kite fishing! Whatever you want to catch, Captain Tim will do his utmost to get you on 'em! Captain Tim's 45' Hatteras sportfisher is a top-of-the-line fishing vessel, equipped with tons of gear and outfitted with amenities to improve your experience. She's powered by twin Detroit 8v-71 engines with a total of 700 horsepower, and features a cabin and flybridge, plus bait wells, ice boxes and more! Get out there and see what luxury fishing in Fort Lauderdale is all about! Fishing License, Ice Box, Water, Rods, Reels, Tackle & Fighting Chair included. Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Fort Lauderdale

Unforgettable Day Offshore

92% (12)
45 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
Fishing in Stock Island
Fishing in Stock Island
Fishing in Stock Island
trip description for Key West Nearshore/Offshore Trip in Stock Island

Climb aboard with Captain Mike for an epic half, 3/4, or full-day experience off the coast of the beautiful Florida Keys! Whether you want to spend a half day near-shore, spend some extra time to go off-shore, or even do a little of both, this luxurious 63' custom built sportfisher will meet all your needs. Trolling the open waters can produce hard fighting species like Amberjacks, Sailfish and Mahi. Trolling trips are great because the boat and the knowledge of your captain take care of half the work for you. You get to sit back, relax, enjoy the sweet sea breeze, and rest your arms while you wait for the reel to start screaming and your work to begin! Bottom fishing changes the target species to an entirely different set of fish. You can expect delicious and hard-fighting reef species like Snapper, Grouper and Amberjacks! Captain Mike will provide all the fishing gear you need to catch some picture-worthy fish. All that’s left to do is bring some food, drinks and sunscreen, and cast off with Captain Mike! Read More

Deep Sea, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Stock Island

Key West Nearshore/Offshore Trip

100% (3)
63 ft 1 - 12 People $$$
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 Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
Fishing in Islamorada
trip description for Epic Islamorada Inshore in Islamorada

Head out for a half, 3/4 or full day Epic Fishing trip in the beautiful Florida Keys fishing for Tarpon, Redfish, Snook, Permit, Mangrove Snapper, Shark, Goliath Grouper, Spanish Mackerel, and much more! Captain Ron is an Islamorada Veteran with over 42 years of Experience chartering fishing trips in the Keys. Per his expert opinion, he recommends half-day 4-hour trips for novice anglers and families with kids. The 6-hour trip is more involved and gives you and your group more time to try different spots, and catch a variety of fish species that the Keys has to offer. And for those fishermen looking to catch everything, that one big fish, or try for the Backcountry slam, Captain Ron recommends the 8-hour full-day trip! No matter which trip you choose, Captain Ron will supply the fishing gear, and you should bring snack, drinks, a cap, sunblock, sunglasses and a camera. Come along and Enjoy!! Read More

Flats, Inshore, Nearshore Fishing Charter in Islamorada

Epic Islamorada Inshore

100% (7)
25 ft 1 - 4 People $$
Damn Good
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Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
Fishing in Tampa
trip description for Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures in Tampa

Get out there and enjoy a fun, laid-back light tackle sportfishing trip on beautiful Tampa Bay. On this trip with 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 children of all ages. 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, 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 is an ideal boat for fishing this 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 in Tampa

Tampa Bay Inshore Adventures

100% (7)
24 ft 1 - 6 People $
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 Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
Fishing in Port Aransas
trip description for Into the Depths- Captain Daniel in Port Aransas

Hit the water with Captain Daniel and experience an action-packed day of fishing! This 8, 10, or 12- hour deep-water adventure allows you to target a bigger variety of fish, such as Red Snapper (depending on the season), Mahi Mahi, and Tuna. The crew of Captain Daniel will guide you every step of the way. You will fish for big game fish, troll weed lines, and bottom fish around rocks, wrecks, and structure. The crew especially loves teaching kids and beginners everything about the different fish species available in this area, as well as fishing techniques. Captain Daniel will supply fuel, bait, top-of-the-line rods and reels, tackle, and ice. All you need to bring is a valid Texas Fishing License with a saltwater stamp for those over 16 years of age, food and drinks of your choice (no bananas), and comfortable life jackets if you are traveling with children. Enjoy an incredible day on the water with Captain Daniel! Read More

Deep Sea Fishing Charter in Port Aransas

Into The Depths- Captain Daniel

100% (1)
36 ft 1 - 6 People $$$
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Everything to Know About Booking a cobia fishing charter

What are the best cobia fishing charters?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 481 cobia trips, and the most popular trips are Offshore Big Game Trip guided by Bryan, Orange Beach Inshore Bliss guided by Rob, and South Padre Island Deep Sea guided by Emilio.

Our guides are rated a 4.88 out of 5 based on 2549 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? Check out our beginner and family friendly cobia guides.

What types of cobia fishing charters are common?

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

The most common fishing techniques are bottom fishing, trolling, and light tackle fishing but heavy tackle fishing and live bait fishing are popular as well.

How much do cobia fishing charters cost?

for cobia prices can range anywhere from about $575 to $4,236, but the average price for a half day trip for cobia is $1,041. The average price for a full day trip for cobia is $2,321.

What month is best for cobia fishing?

The most popular season for cobia fishing is summer, and most anglers book their trips 69 days in advance.

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

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

What is a Cobia?


A cobia is a unique fish - there are no other member of its scientific family left, and it is a fairly prehistoric-looking beast. It is a fish of many names (Texans prefer to call it a ling, and elsewhere around the world you might hear black kingfish, black salmon, lemonfish, black bonito, sergeantfish, cubby yew, crab-eater, or even the prodigal son).

To identify a cobia isn’t too difficult, as they have a massive, depressed head that looks almost flat like a catfish. They are also quickly told apart by their olive upper and white lower body, sometimes with a stripe down the side. These stripes are often more prominent during the spawn. They also have a few unique spikes on their back before their dorsal fin, and interestingly do not have a swim bladder like most other fish, meaning they must propel themselves to swim up or down in the water column.

Cobia are a popular gamefish; they’re strong-willed and fish hard on the line, and are known for keeping the fight alive even after being boated multiple times (don’t underestimate this fish). They are good to eat and are fished both commercially and recreationally. 


How big do Cobia get?

The cobia can grow to pretty substantial sizes, and they can fill out to be rather hefty. They can grow to a maximum of about 80 inches and 175 pounds. The average adults are closer to 30 pounds.

Cobia live to be up to 12-15 years and males mature at 2 years while females mature at around 3, a relatively young age. Breeding generally takes place from April to September in large offshore congregations (earlier in the southeast and later in the Gulf of Mexico).

 

What's the biggest Cobia ever caught?

The largest cobia taken on rod and reel was caught in Shark Bay, Australia. It weighed 135 pounds and was caught in 1985. But this is by no means the largest cobia taken - that distinction belongs to spearfishermen in Brazil who brought in a massive 172 pound fish in 2014. The fish doesn’t technically count towards any records because two men both speared the fish in order to bring it in, but this catch is impressive nonetheless. The official spearfishing record for cobia is a 142 pound fish, still greater than rod and reel. 



Where is the best place to catch Cobia?

Cobia are a pelagic fish and prefer the open sea but are often found cruising elsewhere, including any buoys or flotsam. They will often cozy on up to your boat to check out whats going on and search for crustaceans and small fish. There are also cobia who live inshore in bays and mangroves mostly in pursuit of prey.

Cobia are usually solitary but can be seen in small schools, especially in Florida where they are particularly common. They live all over the world in warm-temperate waters and are very widespread. You can find cobia from Canada to Argentina, from Morocco to South Africa, and from Japan to Australia. The only place you really won’t find cobia are the Eastern Pacific.

When should I catch Cobia?

In Florida, cobia are particularly plentiful. Atlantic coast cobia will hang around near the Keys in the winter months before they move back North. Therefore the Mid-Atlantic states will get the most action in the summer months. In the Gulf fish are around most of the year, but are best spring to summer.

A good rule of thumb is that on the Atlantic side fish will reach North Carolina and the Chesapeake Bay by May, and on the Gulf side will reach Destin by April.

In the US the season is always open. There is a 33 inch minimum for Florida and a 37 inch minimum for Texas and Virginia. In Florida and Virginia the bag limit is 1 per person and in all other states it is 2.

How do you catch Cobia?

When migrating, these fish swim close to the surface and sight casting is the name of the game. They are often seen migrating with rays, and some anglers even use ray’s wings as an indicator that cobia might be nearby. Otherwise, you can catch them trolling, bottom fishing, or jigging.

Cobia are strong, aggressive predators who mainly feed on crustaceans, fish, and squid. They are attracted to many jigs and are curious by nature, so it is good to use colors and get them excited with sound and movement. They will also eat a wide variety of live bait, but are especially interested in crabs (remember, one of their nicknames above is crabeater).

If casting, try to land the bait close to the fish and past its nose, and then run it by their head. If done correctly, cobia should lunge at just about anything that looks appetizing enough to get their attention. The fish will then take off, and once you are able, bring the fish to the boat and work quick so it doesn’t take your line again!

Are Cobia good to eat? What are the best Cobia recipes?

Cobia’s firm, white meat is considered excellent table fare. It has a rich taste and can be buttery but with a low amount of fat an oil. They are good cooked just about any style. They can be high in mercury like other pelagic fish so they are best in moderation.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Great time, good fishing

    Noah M. with Nick S. of Port Orange, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had the best time with Ron and the crew! Would highly recommend this experience to anyone!

    Josh G. with Ron C. of Pompano Beach, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Capt. James’ excellent customer care and service was only exceeded by his fishing and boating knowledge. We felt safe and well cared for on a two day trip where both days exceeded our expectations! We experienced great numbers of fish caught, which was exactly what we asked him to provide us! Kudos to a genuinely nice young man who damn sure knows how to help you catch fish and have fun! Good boat and equipment as well. 5 stars easy!

    Patrick M. with James G. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    we had a great time who was great captain was even better than took us to all the fish were made at home made us feel comfortable. Really appreciate the trip.

    Gerald Y. with Brandon M. of Galveston, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Had a great day fishing with Mike and Marcus. They were very friendly and worked hard to make sure we had a great time! Highly recommend.

    Sarah S. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great Captain, great First Mate, caught a sailfish, multiple mahi mahi, Bonita, kingfish, and a giant Jack Cravel. Couldn’t have been better

    Christopher M. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Had a most excellent time. We were scheduled for an offshore trip but wind and waves caused us to cancel this trip. However, we rescheduled for later in the day for a tarpon fishing excursion. This was a blast ! We saw sharks up close and landed several yellow jacks which gave us a good fight before being returned to the water. After trying and trying (never give up) we snagged a good sized tarpon. After a good fight which included multiple boat maneuvers it was brought to the side of the boat before being cut loose to fight another day. We thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with the captain and first mate. Both were very attentive to us, making sure that our hooks were still baited and that we had all the help required for landing and documenting our catches before returning them to the water. A great time was had by all! The boat was immaculate and we had no issues if any sort.

    Lynn E. with Steve S. of Marathon, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We had a great full day trip with Captain Chris. Chris really helped my wife with his patience and encouragement fight big fish in deep water and use lighter tackle at the shallower wreck. She landed nice yellowtail, yellow jack, mackerel and amberjack. Chris worked hard all day keeping us in fish and rigged as the shark tax was high though the morning. At the end of the day we got great local restaurant recommendations and tips on cooking our catch. Loved the boat playlist! Highly recommend and hope to come back to fish with Chris again.

    John K. with Chris P. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Russel was a great Captain and our whole family had a fantastic time.

    James R. with Russell F. of Panama City, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    James was excellent. Very knowledgeable and personable. Put us on fish all morning. I would highly recommended him.

    Mike S. with James G. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain James was amazing. He was very helpful and patient with my kids. Robbie

    Robert G. with James G. of Fort Myers, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Dave and Marcus weresome. We had a blast. Both of them were professional and fun to be with. Awesome time.

    William Y. with Mike M. of Fort Lauderdale, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Brandon and his deck hand are top notch fishing guides. Very laid back easy going guys. Only charter in the harbor who tagged out on big bull reds 15 - 30 pounds. Monster black drum, bull shark and others. What a good trip.

    Donna J. with Brandon M. of Biloxi, Mississippi

  • ★★★★★
    If you want to be inspired to be a better person, laugh, and catch the most fish out of the Islamorada marina Captain Mark is the way to go. Thanks Mark for a great day. Also thank you for your service to our country and continued surrport of disabled veterans!

    Brian S. with Mark G. of Islamorada, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    I can’t explain how amazing this trip was! Everyone was so sweet and helpful. We got some awesome fish. Our family is so grateful for the amazing experience.

    Alisa J. with Emilio S. of South Padre Island, Texas

  • ★★★★★
    Mike and Cole were fantastic. We had four small kids with us, and they handled them perfectly. We caught lots of yellowtail snapper and a nurse shark! 10/10, would book again (and plan to).

    Daniel K. with Mike W. of Stock Island, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Great experience with Captain Mike. Enjoyed our time on the water and caught an amazing meal of Yellowtail! Thank you Blind Squirrel and crew!

    Matthew P. with Mike W. of Stock Island, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    Captain Mike and 1st ante Owen were fantastic. We did the close to shire trip and they quickly put us on some large Black Drum and later we found where the Sheepshead were hiding bringing in enough keepers to make anyone proud! Would definitely recommend!

    Frank L. with Michael P. of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

  • ★★★★★
    My husband and son had nothing but great things to say about their trip! “Best trip ever” per my son. They were able to catch a 40+ lb grouper! They loved every minute and said Spencer was super knowledgeable! Worth every penny for the experience!

    Michelle P. with Spencer C. of Key West, Florida

  • ★★★★★
    We fished with Capt'n Blake on the 32 Sportsman. Blake was friendly, energetic and most of all, he was determined to put us on the fish. My 13 year old son and his friend were with us, and Blake was extremely attentive and helpful with the youth anglers. I would highly recommend Capt'n Blake, and Captain Experiences, and I would book this same exact trip again if given the opportunity. Tight lines!

    William A. with Ryan H. of Destin, Florida

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