Cobia Fishing in Miami
Rachycentron canadum
Cobia are powerful brown fish that look a little like a shark in the water. They often swim alongside rays, turtles and sharks, which makes them a great fish to sight cast to. They fight hard and are excellent to eat.
Quick facts
Many fish are 35 to 45 inches long.
Large fish are rare but caught every year.
They often swim right up to the boat.
They shadow larger animals to pick up scraps.
Around wrecks, reefs and buoys.
Where to catch them off Miami
Wrecks and reefs
Cobia hang around structure in 40 to 120 feet.
Behind rays
Large rays near the surface often have cobia following them.
Buoys and markers
Anything floating can hold a fish.
Season in Miami
How to read this meter
- PPeak best time to catch
- FFair can catch
- OOff rarely caught
- CClosed season, no harvest
Cobia are caught most of the year, with the best chances in the cooler months.
Best time and conditions
Winter
Cooler water brings more fish along the reef and the shallows.
Calm, sunny days
Good light makes it easier to spot fish.
Techniques and baits
Sight casting
Pitching jigs or live baits to fish you can see.
Chumming
A chum line can bring cobia up behind the boat.
Bottom fishing
Live baits on wrecks.
Heavy tackle
They are strong and run for cover.
Top baits and lures
- Bucktail jigs
- Live pinfish
- Live crabs
- Eels
- Pilchards
Florida regulations
On a Salty Fresh charter, your fishing license is included.
FWC: Cobia rules · Last checked October 27, 2026
On the table
Excellent. Firm, white and mild. Great grilled or blackened.
Which charter is best?
Full Day Fishing
- $1,200 per trip
- 8 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 6 guests
- Also targets Sailfish, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo, King Mackerel, Blackfin Tuna, Tripletail, Amberjack, Almaco Jack, Shark and Barracuda
Shark Fishing
- $750 per trip
- 4 hours, 7:00 AM start
- Up to 4 guests
- Also targets Shark, Tarpon, Barracuda and Amberjack
Cobia FAQ
When is cobia season in Miami?
Most of the year, with more fish in the cooler months.
How many cobia can I keep?
1 per person or 2 per boat, whichever is less, at least 36 inches to the fork.
Why do cobia follow rays?
They pick up crabs and small fish that rays stir up.
Are cobia good to eat?
Yes, they are one of the best.
Which charter is best for cobia?
The Full Day offshore trip. They also turn up on our shark trips.
Can I cancel my trip?
Free cancellation up to 3 days (72 hours) before your trip. This applies to every trip, including iguana hunts and snorkeling. To cancel, call Capt. Charles at (305) 972-5659 or email saltyfreshfishingcharters@gmail.com.