Featured Cobia Charters in Hilton Head Island
Expert captains ready to take you on your next cobia adventure.
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.
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!
Best Time to Catch Cobia
Cobia can be caught year-round in Hilton Head Island. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Cobia
Hilton Head Island is a prime location for cobia anglers, especially during their spring migration. These fish move along the South Carolina coast, often shadowing rays and other large marine life. Focus your efforts around nearshore waters, artificial reefs, and shipping channels. Sight fishing is a popular tactic, so keep an eye out for cobia cruising near the surface. Live eels or menhaden are excellent bait choices, but bucktail jigs tipped with soft plastics can also be effective. Remember to adjust your presentation based on the water depth and current. A local tip: the Broad River is a known hotspot during the early part of the season as the water warms. Don't forget to check the latest fishing regulations, as cobia size and bag limits can change annually.
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's the daily bag limit for Cobia in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina?
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 requirement for Cobia I catch near Hilton Head Island?
Yes, Cobia must be at least 36 inches in fork length to be legally kept in South Carolina.
Do I need a fishing license to target Cobia around Hilton Head Island?
Yes, a South Carolina saltwater fishing license is required to fish for Cobia and other saltwater species in the Hilton Head Island area.
Is there a closed season for Cobia in South Carolina?
No, the Cobia season is open year-round in South Carolina, so you can target them whenever conditions are favorable.
More Cobia Fishing in South Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Hilton Head Island
Ready to Catch Cobia in Hilton Head Island?
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