Species profile
Cobia
Rachycentron canadum
Identify Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) from a photo — free, unlimited, no sign-up — with the CatchRules iPhone app. Plus current fishing rules across 10 jurisdictions.
At a glance
Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species regulated in 14 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
The strictest bag limit is 1 (Florida); the most generous is 2 (Louisiana).
Across 11 jurisdictions with stated minimum sizes, the average minimum is 38.5 in (≈ 3 ft 3 in).
Confirmed by 184 research-grade iNaturalist observations, with Florida, Virginia, and Texas the top jurisdictions by observation count.
Notable details
- The sole member of its own family, Rachycentridae — a true evolutionary singleton with no close living relatives.
- Regularly reaches 50 pounds; the IGFA all-tackle world record is 135 pounds 9 ounces.
- Routinely shadows large animals — manta rays, whale sharks, sea turtles — to scavenge displaced prey.
- Among the fastest-growing large game fish, capable of gaining 10 or more pounds per year.
- Prized by anglers for firm, white flesh with a mild, slightly buttery flavor.
Where Cobia are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Cobia
Background
The cobia (Rachycentron canadum) is a species of perciform marine fish, the only representative of the genus Rachycentron and the family Rachycentridae. Other common names include black kingfish, black salmon, ling, lemonfish, crabeater, prodigal son and black bonito.
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Cobia article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other bony fish on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is Cobia?
Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) is an IUCN Least Concern bony-fish species regulated in 14 of 66 jurisdictions tracked by CatchRules across the U.S. and Canada.
What is the scientific name for Cobia?
Cobia is Rachycentron canadum.
Is Cobia regulated for fishing?
Yes — Cobia has fishing regulations in 10 U.S. states and/or Canadian provinces tracked by CatchRules. See the "Jurisdictions with rules" section above for the binding-source links.
How can I identify Cobia?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules iPhone app — on-device identification recognizes Cobia along with ~1,500 other species. No sign-up, unlimited use.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.