Cobias are popular catches when taking a trip to do some Miami deep sea fishing. They are closely related to the remora, mahi-mahi, and jack fishes, but they do have a distinctive appearance. They have dark brown and black scales, including thin stripes that run down the sides of their backs and underbellies. Their bodies have a long, wide shape, with a flat and wide-shaped head as well.

These fish have been known to reach lengths of six and a half feet long! When they reach sizes of that magnitude, they can weigh close to 150 pounds. However, when marlin fishing in Miami Beach, if you stumble upon a cobra, don’t expect them to always be so large. Most cobias only measure three feet and six inches long.

This fish has a ton of nicknames, all depending on what region you are in. Crabeater, black bonito, black kingfish, lemonfish, and prodigal son are all known names for this prized possession.

Commercial fisheries are also common, as this is a choice fish to eat. It has a high-quality flavor and firm texture, so they usually sell at supermarkets and grocery stores for a high price.

Cobias love to hang out in coastal waters but are harder to find inshore or in intertidal areas. Coral reefs, buoys, and rocky zones are where they love to be the most. The Atlantic Ocean, Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean have all had cobia sightings. Its most popular habitat is off the coast of North America, spanning all the way to the tip of South America.

Be on the lookout for cobia on your next fishing trip in Miami – you may just catch one.