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How to Rig Up for Cobia on a Kayak

How to Rig Up for Cobia on a Kayak

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Cobia are a popular saltwater gamefish because of their fierce fight. While offshore large-boat anglers may target cobia, kayak anglers also can go after these fish. The ability of a kayak angler to move with the fish while playing it allows for the use of lighter gear and line. The same type of baits can be used when kayak, larger boat or pier fishing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • Kayak
  • 7-foot medium-heavy rod and matched reel
  • 8- to 10-pound test monofilament fishing line
  • 18- to 20-pound test monofilament leader (5 feet long)
  • 6/0 or 7/0 hook
  • Fluorocarbon leader
  • Bonita or squid
  • Weight
Step 1
Select a 7-foot medium heavy spinning rod with a fast action with a matched medium duty spinning reel. Spool the reel with 8- to 10-pound test monofilament line. The 8-pound test monofilament should prove to be enough, but consider spooling 10-pound test if you are concerned about handling larger fish.
Step 2
Attach an 18- to 20-pound test monofilament leader as a shock leader. The fierce strike and fight that cobia demonstrate make a heavy shock leader a necessity.
Step 3
Connect the lines with a surgeon's knot. Form the knot by overlapping the ends of the line for 6 or 7 inches.Form a loop with the doubled lines and tie an overhand knot. Wrap the leader and free end of the main line around the overhand loop two more times. Moisten the knot and pull down tight with a quick motion.
Step 4
Attach a fluorocarbon leader, if desired, that matches the diameter of the shock leader. Use another surgeon's knot to attach the fluorocarbon to the shock leader.
Step 5
Tie on a 6/0 or 7/0 hook to the line with a Palomar knot. Tie the Palomar by forming a loop in the line several inches from the end. Feed the loop through the eye of the hook. Hold the loop with one hand and the doubled line with the other. Form an overhand knot with the loop and doubled line. Pull the loop through and around the bend of the hook. Pull the knot down slowly, making any adjustments necessary as you go.
Step 6
Rig the hook with bonita or squid.

Tips & Warnings

 
Although the bait used on the hook will provide a certain amount of weight, you may want to consider adding a 1/4-ounce weight to the line. The weight can be placed on the line before tying on the hook and then pegged in place with a toothpick or match stick. The weight will help get the bait down deeper into the water and slow the drift.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

Write for Trails.com

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