Overview
Black kingfish — commonly called cobia — patrol beacons, wrecks, shoals and even large rays, and are famous for appearing beside the boat unannounced.
They are one of the best eating large fish in northern Australia, with thick white fillets.
A hooked cobia usually makes several short powerful runs and then attempts to wrap the anchor rope or a beacon leg.
Where to find them
- ▸Navigation beacons and channel markers in tidal bays.
- ▸Wrecks and artificial reefs in 15–40 m.
- ▸Following manta rays and large stingrays on the flats.
- ▸Around anchored berley trails on shoals.
Tackle
- ▸Rod: 7' spin rated 10–15 kg.
- ▸Line: 40–50 lb braid with 60–80 lb fluorocarbon.
- ▸Lures: 7" paddle-tails on 1–2 oz heads, big poppers, live yakkas or mullet.
Tips from the water
- ▸Keep a rigged rod ready for the fish that follows a hooked one to the boat.
- ▸Cast well past a beacon and swim the lure back to it.
- ▸Never gaff or boat a green cobia — they destroy boat interiors.
Regulations
Size, bag and possession limits differ between states and can change each season. Check the current rules with your state fisheries authority before keeping a fish.