Featured Cobia Charters in Beaufort
Expert captains ready to take you on your next cobia adventure.
Redfish Beaufort Guide Service
Fly fishing and inshore fishing photo gallery of redfish, cobia, trout, and more in the Beaufort and Hilton Head, SC area with Capt. Zach
Seas So Shallow Fishing Guide Service & Beaufort Guest House
At Seas So Shallow in Beaufort, SC, we specialize in charter fishing for a wide selection of shallow water species. These include redfish, trout, flounder, tripletail, cobia, sharks, and more. For more information on how to book your trip with us, contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!
Best Time to Catch Cobia
Cobia can be caught year-round in Beaufort. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Cobia
Cobia fishing near Beaufort, North Carolina, is a springtime highlight for many anglers. These powerful fish migrate along the coast, offering sight-casting opportunities near the surface and around navigational buoys. The prime time is typically from April through June. Many anglers patrol the nearshore waters looking for cobia sunning themselves near the surface. Keep a close watch for them around channel markers and other floating objects. A great local tip is to have a live eel or large bucktail jig ready to cast at any cobia you spot. Be sure to check the current regulations for size and bag limits, as they can change. The cobia in the Beaufort area are known for their impressive size and fighting ability, so be prepared for a challenging battle.
How to Catch Cobia
Cobia Fishing Regulations in North Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
1 per person per day, 1 per vessel per day
Size Limit
36-inch fork length minimum
License Required
Coastal Recreational Fishing License
Harvest allowed only with hook and line. Check for any seasonal closures or gear restrictions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the North Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in North Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait to use when fishing for cobia around Beaufort?
Live eels are a top choice for cobia, but live menhaden or blue crabs can also be very effective. You can also try jigging with bucktail jigs or casting large swimbaits.
What's the size and bag limit for cobia in North Carolina?
The minimum size limit for cobia is 36 inches fork length. The bag limit is 1 per person per day, and 1 per vessel per day.
Where are the best places to find cobia near Beaufort, NC?
Cobia are often found around buoys, channel markers, and wrecks. They also tend to congregate around schools of baitfish. Sight fishing is also popular when conditions allow.
Do I need a special license to fish for cobia in Beaufort?
No special license is needed, but you do require a valid Coastal Recreational Fishing License to legally fish for cobia in North Carolina's saltwater areas.
More Cobia Fishing in North Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Beaufort
Ready to Catch Cobia in Beaufort?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.