Techniques
CASTING TECHNIQUES
If a Cobia is spotted near a ray or bell buoy, whatever it is the fish calls its territory, don't maneuver the boat too close. Keep a long cast's length away from it. Wait until the boat is even with the fish or passing it.
Cast your artificial in front of the Cobia. If the bait is a swimmer, just twitch it a few times before an erratic retrieve. If the Cobia wants it, the fish will let you know.
Inactive shrimp boats, usually anchored and with a sleeping crew, will draw Cobia. Cast along the shadow side of the boat first, dropping a live mullet near the hull. The fish will also hit a Justice Ling Jig, usually displaying a Shimmy Shad body and concave head. Hop the Justice Jig over the bottom for best results.
Casting situations help break up the trolling routine, and sometimes brighten the day. Cobia encounters always mean powerful hits and a good fight, so always keep your eyes open for the old Crabeater.
