Cobia

Targeting cobia around Brownsville, Texas, means understanding the nuances of the Lower Laguna Madre and the Gulf of Mexico. Spring and fall are prime times, as cobia migrate along the coast, following baitfish schools. Focus your efforts around nearshore structures like buoys, channel markers, and oil rigs. These fish are opportunistic feeders, so live bait like crabs and shrimp are hard to beat, but artificial lures that mimic these prey items can also be effective. Pay close attention to water clarity; cobia prefer cleaner water. A local tip: the Brazos Santiago Pass is a known hotspot, but be mindful of strong currents. Also, keeping a keen eye out for floating debris after storms can pay off, as cobia often congregate around these objects. Remember to adjust your presentation depth based on water temperature and current conditions to maximize your chances of hooking into one of these powerful fish.