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Follow these tips from veteran flounder pros around the country to speed up time between strikes.
[VIDEO: Click here to learn how to properly clean your cobia catch.]
Cobia Killers
These three rigs will help you ring the dinner bell for one of the toughest fish that swims.
Perhaps the best time to catch cobia is in the spring as they migrate from their wintering grounds in South Florida.
On the Atlantic side, cobia will head north for the Carolinas, while Gulf-bound cobia first migrate north along the Florida coast before heading west and into the Gulf itself.
Cobia have an extensive list of preferred food, but they can be finicky.
Getting a cobia to the surface is one thing, but catching it is another.
Try one of these rigs if the going gets tough:
1. Simple Squid Rig
Illustration: Pete Sucheski
Thread the leader and hook through the squid's body cavity, penetrating the cartilage. This keeps the squid well-hooked when casting.
2. Surf Fishfinder Rig
Illustration: Pete Sucheski
Surf ace Tres Irby of Hatteras Outfitters rigs cut mullet or live bluefish with excellent results. The short leader and 2/0 barrel swivel allow for tangle-free, long-range surf casting.
3. Live Eel Options
Illustration: Pete Sucheski
Pass a 2/0 to 6/0 short-shank hook through the eyes or the skin mid-way along the body (shown), which prevents the eel from fouling the line. The No. 4 swivel stops line twist.
