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 Kiawah Island. Right now in February, activity is Poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Cobia
Kiawah Island, South Carolina, provides a launching point for anglers seeking cobia in the nearshore waters of the Atlantic. Cobia, also known as 'ling' or 'lemonfish,' are prized for their delicious meat and challenging fight. Spring and early summer are peak season as cobia migrate along the coast, often congregating around buoys, wrecks, and other structure. Sight fishing from a boat is a common tactic, using live eels, crabs, or large jigs. A local tip is to check the buoys marking the shipping channels; these often hold cobia. Be sure to have a heavy-duty rod and reel, as cobia can grow to significant sizes and put up a formidable battle. Regulations regarding size and bag limits are strictly enforced, so familiarize yourself with them before heading out. The cobia fishery off Kiawah Island offers a chance to land a truly impressive sportfish.
How to Catch Cobia
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Cobia in Kiawah Island.
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 minimum size for cobia I can keep when fishing near Kiawah Island?
The minimum fork length for cobia in South Carolina is 36 inches. Any cobia shorter than this must be released.
How many cobia can I keep per day when fishing around Kiawah Island?
You're allowed to keep 1 cobia per person per day, with a maximum of 3 cobia per boat per day. Be mindful of these limits to stay within the law.
Do I need a saltwater fishing license to target cobia near Kiawah Island?
Yes, a valid South Carolina saltwater fishing license is required to legally fish for cobia in the Kiawah Island area's waters.
What are some good baits for catching cobia around Kiawah Island?
Cobia are known to take live eels, crabs, and fish. They will also strike artificial lures such as jigs and bucktails.
More Cobia Fishing in South Carolina
Other Species to Fish in Kiawah Island
Ready to Catch Cobia in Kiawah Island?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



