Offshore Fishing Cobia Tampa Florida

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Alright, fishing enthusiasts, let’s dive into the blue (Gulf of Mexico) that’s as thrilling as it is instructive.

Catching Cobia in the Gulf of Mexico

In episode 53 of the Landed Fishing video series, we join Captain Randall and the dynamic duo Steven and Audrey from the Physicians Gone Fishing YouTube Channel. These folks aren’t just dipping their toes in the water; they’re plunging into the heart of the Gulf of Mexico with an ambitious plan.

Watch Now: Catching Cobia in the Gulf

Physicians Gone Fishing

Thank you to our guests Steven and Audrey! If you haven’t already go check out their channel!

Checkout their Channel!

About Catching Cobia: Episode 53

Over two adrenaline-packed days, the crew sets their sights on the classic art of bottom fishing and jigging, targeting the ever-elusive snapper and grouper. Their bait strategy? A diverse buffet ranging from live pinfish, white bait, and shrimp, to an impressive collection of artificial lures. They’re leaving no stone unturned, or should I say, no bait unbitten.

How to Catch Cobia in the Gulf of Mexico

Battling Cobia Fishing in the Gulf

But here’s where the story takes a turn towards the epic. After a long push 60 miles off Florida’s west coast, they find themselves at a location known as the steps, near a freshwater spring lying in the depths of about 140 feet. Just when you think it’s another routine catch, they stumble upon a large group of migratory cobia.

cobia fishing offshore tampa florida Physicians Gone Fishing

About Cobia

Cobia are migratory fish in the Gulf of Mexico – strong, elusive, and a prize catch for any angler.

In the Episode

With their flat lines out, the team hooks up on what promises to be the catch of a lifetime. But, there’s a twist. The gear they’ve brought to this underwater showdown is, to put it mildly, underpowered for the task at hand. The giants of the gulf decide to take the lightest tackle rod, equipped with only 20lb fluorocarbon and 30lb braided line. To the fishing novices out there, that’s like bringing a knife to a gunfight.

Saltwater Fishing with Captain Randall in the Gulf of Mexico

What unfolds is a David vs. Goliath battle between the mighty cobia and our intrepid anglers. It’s a testament to the unpredictability of fishing in the Gulf of Mexico and a stark reminder that in fishing, as in life, preparation meets opportunity.

So, what can aspiring anglers take away from this epic tale? First, always respect the unpredictability of the sea and its inhabitants. Second, gear up appropriately – while the light tackle provides an exhilarating challenge, it’s crucial to match your gear to the potential size and strength of your quarry.

Catching Yellowtail Snapper in the Gulf of Mexico

Fishing the Entire Water Column

As a general rule of thumb when fishing in the Gulf it often helps to fish the entire water column, meaning to have lines out at various depths to ensure you cover from the surface to the bottom when fishing offshore.

Lastly, embrace the adventure. Fishing is as much about the experience and the stories as it is about the catch.

To all the anglers out there dreaming of their big Gulf of Mexico adventure, let episode 53 of Landed Fishing be both a cautionary tale and an inspiration. The Gulf is vast and filled with challenges, but for those willing to brave its depths, it offers rewards beyond measure. Happy fishing!