Cobia - Basic Fishing Baits and Lures

Cobia Fishing with Live Baits and Artificial Lures

Cobia fishing requires understanding how these fish relate to structure, current, and seasonal migration patterns. Captain Brian Sanders demonstrates why certain baits and lures consistently produce cobia around wrecks, buoys, and coastal structure where these fish feed aggressively during their spring and fall movements. Success depends on matching presentation to fish behavior and environmental conditions rather than relying on a single bait or lure approach.

What Live Baits Work Best for Cobia and Why?

Rigging live bait properly means allowing natural movement while maintaining control during the cast and retrieve. Hook placement through the nose or back depends on current strength and whether you're freelining or using weight. In strong current, nose-hooked baits swim more naturally. In calm conditions or when sight casting, back-hooked baits create better action during the retrieve.

How Do Artificial Lures Compare to Live Bait for Cobia?

Topwater plugs excel during sight casting situations when cobia are cruising near the surface. The technique works because cobia strike aggressively at surface commotion, especially during spring migration when fish are competitive and feeding heavily.

When Do Stalking and Sight Casting Techniques Produce Results?

Sight casting works best during calm conditions with good visibility when cobia cruise predictable routes along structure edges or migrate along beaches. The approach fails in rough seas, stained water, or when fish are holding deep on structure rather than actively patrolling.