Cobia Fishing in Mexico Beach, Florida
Cobia are a prized species in the spring and early summer months off Mexico Beach. These powerful fish are often spotted cruising near the surface, following rays, or hanging around buoys and wrecks. They put up a serious fight and are excellent on the dinner table, making them a highly sought-after catch.
Where to Catch Cobia
In the Mexico Beach area, cobia are often found:
Cruising nearshore during their spring migration
Near buoys, navigation markers, and weedlines
Over wrecks, reefs, and deep channel edges
Sight fishing with live bait or jigs is extremely effective when cobia are near the surface.
Best Time to Fish for Cobia
| Season | Cobia Activity |
|---|---|
| Spring | Peak migration; best time to target cobia nearshore |
| Summer | Still good on wrecks and offshore structure |
| Fall | Slows, but some fish remain near offshore structure |
Peak Season: March through May
Tackle & Tips
Lures: Large jigs, bucktails, swimbaits
Bait: Live eels, crabs, pinfish, or threadfin
Leaders: 50–80 lb fluorocarbon
Technique: Cast to cruising fish or drop bait near structure
