Cobia is one of the largest and most exciting game fishes in the USA. These smooth fishes are found along the coast of the Atlantic and the Persian Gulf. They hit the fish, with striped sides, large pectoral fins and a deeply forked tail. The fish has brown backs with a black stripe along the sideline and white lower ones. They have a wide, dull head and a big mouth. Although most fish range from 15 to 30 pounds, they can reach a weight of 100 pounds or more, and their length reaches 6 feet.
Cobia fishermen use different outfits, depending on the type of fishing. Some anglers may choose lightweight outfits, while others use stronger gear, as these fish can reach a weight of 100 pounds. For sighting bait or bait most anglers use spinning or casting bait in the range of 20-30 pounds. Other situations, such as chumming, require similar or slightly heavier conventional drums. Due to the size of the covia and the burning movements, a smooth drag and a fresh, strong line are required.
Anglers fish for coves with live bait, such as spot, croaker, perch, mendaden, striped bullet, eels, shrimp, crabs and other baits. The best lures vary by season, location, availability and personal preference. Some anglers get live bait in local stores, while others prefer to catch themselves with cast nets, hook and line, seines or traps.
Instead of fishing with baits, some anglers prefer baits for covia, although fish have a reputation for being cunning to them. Often, anglers will encounter cows on the surface that follow the bait, but refuse to bite. A few basic baits, presented correctly, sometimes incite a strike from otherwise uninterested fish. These include surface poppers, soft boots and other baits. The action and presentation of baits can be crucial, and experience is a key asset for fishermen. As with the rods and reels, the bait and end trick must be strong to cope with the stresses of these atrocious fish.
Marine anglers also target cobias. Flying skating rinks look for fish that cruise on the surface, focusing on the structure or painted on the canines. Flying rods and coils should be high-quality saltwater versions capable of withstanding powerful covia runs. Large sea flies that mimic a local starfish are often the best choice, although some anglers create unusual designs to cause a blow from a cautious fish.
Fishermen who catch covia must decide to release the fish unscathed or gather it at the table. Fish intended for release are often stored in water so as not to harm them. Cobia, which will be stored for food, is usually netted or sprinkled and immediately placed in the refrigerator. Cobia can shake around if it is on deck, creating a situation that is dangerous for fish and angler.
Harvested fish are stored on ice and cleaned as soon as possible. Cocktails are white, scaly and very soft tasting. One big fish will give enough steaks to feed several families. Fortunately, covia is very easy to fillet, and the meat freezes well. Cobia steaks easily adapt to most recipes that require a white, mild fish flavor.
