Fishing Charters in South Carolina
Browse fishing charters in South Carolina that can help you catch cobia.
Avid Angling Fishing Charters
Avid Angling Fishing Charters offers Inshore Fishing Charters, Nearshore Fishing Charters, Fly Fishing, Flycasting Lessons, Nearshore Sight Fishing Trips, Surf Fishing, Cobia Trips, and Tarpon trips.
LoCo Fly Charters
Hilton Head Fly Fishing Charter specializing in sight casting on the fly, light tackle and lessons, chasing Redfish, Cobia, Jacks and the mighty Tarpon.
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
Lowcountry Cowboy Fishing Charters
Premiere Charter Fishing at Hilton Head Island. Deep Sea, Offshore, Inshore, Near Shore. Catch: Redfish, Jack Crevelle, Tarpon, Spanish Mackerel, Cobia, Sharks!
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 Hilton Head. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Cobia
If you're after a true trophy fish, consider targeting Cobia around Hilton Head. These hard-fighting fish migrate through the area in the spring and early summer, offering anglers a chance to test their skills. Sight fishing is a popular method, as Cobia often cruise near the surface or around buoys and channel markers. Keep an eye out for them sunning themselves near the surface. Live eels or large jigs are effective baits. When you spot a cobia, cast ahead of its path and be ready for a powerful strike. The nearshore waters and artificial reefs off Hilton Head are known hotspots. A local tip: check the water clarity, as Cobia prefer clear water for sight fishing. Launch from Skull Creek Boathouse for easy access to Port Royal Sound. Cobia in this region can reach impressive sizes, so use heavy tackle and be prepared for a long fight.
How to Catch Cobia
Cobia Fishing Regulations in South Carolina
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
1 per person per day, 3 per boat per day
Size Limit
36-inch fork length minimum
License Required
Saltwater fishing license
From January 1 to the last day of February, cobia fishing is only allowed from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. A harvest tag is required for each cobia kept.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the South Carolina state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in South Carolina
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cobia bag limit in South Carolina?
You can keep 1 Cobia per person, per day, with a maximum of 3 Cobia per boat, per day.
Is there a minimum size for Cobia I catch near Hilton Head?
Yes, Cobia must be at least 36 inches in fork length to be harvested legally in South Carolina.
What's the best way to target Cobia around Hilton Head?
Cobia are often found near buoys, wrecks, and other structure. Live eels, crabs, or fish are excellent bait choices.
Can I fish for Cobia year-round in Hilton Head?
Yes, the Cobia season is open year-round in South Carolina. Make sure you have a valid saltwater fishing license.
More Cobia Fishing in South Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Hilton Head
Ready to Catch Cobia in Hilton Head?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.