Cobia from the surf

[surffisher205]

I am new to cobia fishing. I have a penn 309 level wind and a Tsunami Trophy 40lb 7 footer.I am using power pro for increased line capacity. Is this suffecient or should I upgrade my tackle. I have no idea where to begin targeting cobia in the surf. I paddle all my baits out in my kayak. Any tackle, rigging, bait, or technique info would be very much appreciated. Thanks.

[Boboe]

Where are you fishing out of? Knowing that will help us answer your question.

[surffisher205]

I am fishing from Fort Morgan Alabama. Near gulf shores alabama.

[Boboe]

Cobia along the that area is generally done by sight fishing from the tower of the boat, but you probably know that. Eels (the black, freshwater type that are tough as nails to kill) are the absolute best bait for sight fishing. The probablem with using them from shore with a sit-and-wait tactic is that they'd probably tangle your line. So, since you'll be "plunking," I'd say that hardhead catfish (1# size, horny fins cut off), big pinfish, or a hard tail would do you well.

The flat heads are generally swimming on the surface, but that doesn't mean they don't go down to the bottom at all. We've all had them go down when we're trying to get close enough for a cast. I'd fish a 11/0 circle hook in the bigger baits and hook them in the mouth. Sharpen the hell out of your hooks. Flat heads have hard mouths. Alternately, you could use treble hooks and hook your baits in the back. Again, sharpen.

Get your baits outside of the sandbar. With the large amount of line you'll be using, I think circles will be your better bet.

Caveat: I have never fished cobia from the beach, only from the tower of a boat.

[surffisher205]

Thanks for the info i will give those techniques a try.

[kvcobia]

Originally Posted by surffisher205

I am new to cobia fishing. I have a penn 309 level wind and a Tsunami Trophy 40lb 7 footer.I am using power pro for increased line capacity. Is this suffecient or should I upgrade my tackle. I have no idea where to begin targeting cobia in the surf. I paddle all my baits out in my kayak. Any tackle, rigging, bait, or technique info would be very much appreciated. Thanks.

I would Use Menhaden We catch Them up here in Va. & NC. In the surf ! I woud get A Tica 10' 0r 12' surf Rod With an Avet Lever Drag Reel with 20Lb Cajun Red on it ! Or either A penn 525 Mag Or An Avet Lever Drag SX MODELS
I would Use 60 Lb test At least 12 foot long for A Shock Leader & Fish Finder rig You may catch alot of sharks & rays But when The Rays & sharks are around So are The Cobia & also Your Red Drum ! Take it easy Also Eals Cut There tail Off It make them swim less ! Or like you said You paddle Out Your Baits I would Use A 7 footer Penn Power Stick Also A Penn
GLD20 GLD30

[surffisher205]

Thanks guys. I appreciate all the help. I am going to beach in march. I cant wait.