Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) — also known as black kingfish, black salmon, ling, lemonfish, crabeaters, etc. are a favorite among recreational anglers on the east coast.
Attaining a maximum length of around 6 and a half feet and a maximum weight of 150 pounds, Cobia have elongate fusiform (spindle shaped) bodies and broad, flattened heads.
Their eyes are small and their lower jaw projects slightly past the upper jaw. On the jaws, tongue and roof of the mouth are bands of villiform (fibrous) teeth. Their bodies are smooth with small scales, their dark brown coloration grading to white on the belly with two darker brown horizontal bands on the flanks. When boated, the horizontal pelvic fins enable the Cobia to remain upright so that their vigorous thrashing can make them a hazard.
Cobia feed primarily on Crabs, squid and other fish. Cobia will follow larger animals such as Sharks, Turtles and Manta Rays in hope of scavenging a meal. Cobia are intensely curious fish and show no fear of boats.
Cobia are powerful fish popular among sport fishermen, and a prized table fare. Cobia are primarily sought by sight casting bucktails to migrating fish, or to fish following Turtles or Manta rays. They also can be caught by live bait such as Menhaden slow-trolled near reefs and wrecks.
