Changes to Cobia Regulations Effective February 1, 2018

Cobia are a popular target for pier and beach fisherman each spring when they make their annual “run” just off the beaches of NW Florida.
Photo Credit: Tyler Jones IFAS Communications

Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) are a popular game fish along the Gulf coast of Northwest Florida. They are highly prized by anglers both as table fare and for their ferocious fighting. As part of an effort to better manage the Cobia fishery, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) passed new regulations at the December 2017 Commission Meeting relating to Cobia harvest.

Regulation changes will go into effect February 1, 2018 for all state waters north of the Monroe-Collier county line (Gulf state waters).

  • Recreational and commercial bag limits in Gulf state waters will become the same with a trip limit of one fish per person.
  • Recreational and commercial vessel limits will become two fish per day.
  • Minimum size limit (33’’ fork length) will remain the same.

Visit the FWC website for more information on Cobia and the regulation changes.

Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) Photo Credit: http://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/saltwater/cobia/

 

0


Posted: January 29, 2018


Category: Coasts & Marine, Natural Resources, Recreation, Wildlife
Tags: Cobia, Fishing, Panhandle Outdoors


Subscribe For More Great Content

IFAS Blogs Categories