Although we sometimes reject the notion of new tighter regulations on specific species, there are times when maybe the state gets it right. I can't say for sure, but right after the new Cobia regulations were implemented from 33 inches to the fork and a 2 fish keeper limit to 36 inches to the fork and a 1 fish keeper limit, there was a substantial decrease in overall Cobia catches for about 3 or 4 years following. Did they actually see that coming? It's possible and if so then kudos to them for getting a preventative plan together right away. After the last few years of barely finding a keeper sized Cobia and a general decrease in overall population, this season has seen way more Cobia on the line and some of the biggest catches we have seen in years. Maybe they finally got it right unlike the Red Snapper issue which has been a disaster for years. All I can say is, we are seeing more Cobia and bigger Cobia and recently we caught the biggest fish we have seen on the boat in almost 8 years at 51 inches! It took 3 of us to get it over the rail and what a fish it was! We can only hope that this success story can extend to other species and not be influenced by the political influence of the Commercial Fishing Industry trying to keep as much of the quota as possible for themselves. For now, we're going to enjoy the larger numbers of Cobia, as it is always a welcome "bycatch" on our Shark Fishing Charters!
If you are looking for an exciting charter with a large variety of species like Cobia, Grouper, Sea Bass, Mackerel AND Sharks, contact us today for a trip of a lifetime.
We'll see you on the water!
Captain Ed - Shark Ventures