Hey there! Welcome to my best Cobia lures review.
I have been fishing for Cobia for the last 10-plus years off the coast of North Carolina. Whether I am sight-casting with bucktails during their migration, bottom fishing, or trolling, Cobia is one of my favorite fish to Target.
These Cobia lures below have proven to be highly effective for me, and all of them can easily be bought via Amazon.
You don’t have to go around town and talk to every tackle shop to get out on the water and start catching Cobia. Choose one of these lures, and you’ll get an effective lure guaranteed to help you catch more fish this year.
Ready to head out of the inlet and start reeling in Cobia?
Let’s go!
Best Cobia Lures – Comparison Table
Best Cobia Lures Reviewed
I’ve researched and tested several cobia lures to bring you my top picks. Below is a list of the best cobia lures available on the market.
Delong Lures 13″ KILR EEL Swimbaits
I believe the Delong Lures 8″ KILR EEL Swimbait is a worthy addition to any angler’s tackle box due to its lifelike appearance and enticing action.
Pros
- Easy to use with erratic movements
- Lifelike design and Anise scent
- Versatile for different predator fish
Cons
- Might be too stiff for some anglers
- Durability might be an issue
- Limited color options
As an angler, I found the Delong Lures 8″ KILR EEL Swimbait impressive when it comes to attracting predator fish in both fresh and saltwater. Its unique design, with hard wings and fins, gives it a very erratic movement that drives fish like musky, pike, and cobia crazy. The action of the lure is different from any other I have used, and it certainly catches the attention of fish in the water.
The lifelike appearance and Anise scent of this swimbait are a great combination for luring in your target fish. The realistic eyes, together with the scent, make it irresistible for predator fish. I have used it in both freshwater and saltwater environments, and it has attracted a variety of fish, including Giant Muskie, Northern Pike, big bass, Cobia, Tarpon, Barracuda, and King Mackerel.
However, there are a few downsides to the Delong Lures KILR EEL Swimbait. Some anglers might find it too stiff, which could affect their ability to control the bait easily. Additionally, the swimbait’s durability is questionable, as some users have noted that it wears out faster than they expected. Finally, the color options for this swimbait are limited, which may not cater to every angler’s preference.
Overall, the Delong Lures 8″ KILR EEL Swimbait offers an exciting and unique way to catch a variety of predator fish. Its lifelike design, scent, and erratic movement are definite selling points. However, considering its durability and stiffness, it may not be perfect for every angler. Regardless, I believe it’s worth trying out for a unique and potentially successful fishing experience.
Sea Striker CSR36-1PK Cobia/Kingfish Leaders
The Sea Striker CSR36-1PK Cobia/Kingfish Leaders set should be considered by anglers looking for reliable heavy-duty bottom fishing lures.
Pros
- Effective for targeting Cobia and Shark
- Durable 90 lb. black coated wire
- Quality 2/0 swivel and Coastlock snap swivel
Cons
- May not be suitable for smaller fish species
- Limited versatility for different fishing environments
- Egg sinker weight could be excessive for some conditions
As an avid angler, I recently used the Sea Striker CSR36-1PK Cobia/Kingfish Leaders set on one of my fishing trips. I must say, these lures delivered impressive results. The 3 feet of 90 lb. black coated wire with the 6 ounces egg lead ensures a secure line, while the 2/0 swivel and Coastlock snap swivel provided added strength to my rig.
One thing to bear in mind, these lures are specifically designed for heavy-duty bottom fishing and may not be suitable for all fishing conditions. I found them particularly effective for targeting Cobia and Sharks. However, for other smaller species, they may not be the most appropriate choice.
Despite its limited versatility, the Sea Striker CSR36-1PK Cobia/Kingfish Leaders set truly excels in its intended purpose. The 90-pound test line withstands strong, powerful fish, while the design of the lure entices predators.
In conclusion, if you’re in search of a reliable lure set for heavy-duty bottom fishing, especially when targeting Cobia or Sharks, I recommend giving the Sea Striker CSR36-1PK Cobia/Kingfish Leaders a try. While it may not be suitable for all fishing situations, it certainly shines when used for its intended purpose.
AGOOL Bucktail Jig Fluke Lures
The AGOOL Bucktail Jig Fluke Lures are versatile and effective for a variety of fish species, making them a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box.
Pros
- Made with genuine bucktail, crystal flash, and vivid 3D eyes for realism
- Stainless steel hooks provide strength and corrosion resistance
- Suitable for various species, including cobia, bass, and walleye
Cons
- Smaller and lighter compared to competitor products
- May require added sinker for better casting
- Comes in one color per pack, limiting options
As a fishing enthusiast, I found the AGOOL Bucktail Jig Fluke Lures surprisingly lifelike and well-designed, thanks to the combination of genuine bucktail, crystal flash, and 3D eyes. These features make the lure highly attractive to a wide range of fish species such as cobia, bass, and walleye, providing great versatility in various fishing environments.
Despite being lighter and smaller than some competing products, the stainless steel hooks are a notable feature due to their strength and corrosion resistance. This ensures that the lures can be used in both freshwater and saltwater environments without the need for constant replacement.
However, one downside I experienced is that the lures may require an additional sinker in order to cast effectively, particularly in stronger currents. Additionally, while the package includes five different lures, they all come in the same color. This can limit your options when trying to match the lure to the local baitfish population or when changing fishing conditions require different colors to entice a bite.
Overall, the AGOOL Bucktail Jig Fluke Lures prove to be a practical and versatile option for anglers targeting various fish species. With a few minor improvements, such as offering multiple colors per pack and optimizing the weight for casting, these lures could become an even more valuable tool in any angler’s arsenal.
Rite Angler Cobia Rig
I confidently recommend this Rite Angler Cobia Rig for anyone targeting cobia due to its high quality and efficacy.
Pros
- Available in 6/0 and 7/0 hook sizes with 3ft of 80lb test
- Made from quality materials and corrosion-resistant finish
- Pre-rigged and ready to use right out of the package
Cons
- Limited to two hook size options
- May not work as effectively for other target species
- Some anglers might not like the fixed 2oz egg sinker
My recent fishing trip with the Rite Angler Cobia Rig was a great success. Available in both 6/0 and 7/0 O’Shaughnessy hook sizes with 3ft of 80lb test, I found that it was perfectly suited for targeting cobia during their migration. In fact, I was able to catch a few sizable fish in no time.
I particularly appreciated that the rig was pre-rigged and ready to use straight out of the package. The 80lb test monofilament leader, corrosion-resistant black nickel finish barrel swivel, and sturdy hook all contributed to its excellent performance in holding up to the powerful strikes from cobia.
However, I did find that the fixed 2oz egg sinker might not be everyone’s preference, and the limited hook size options might not suit anglers targeting other species. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Rite Angler Cobia Rig still excelled in its intended purpose: catching cobia effectively and efficiently. Overall, my experience with the Rite Angler Cobia Rig was outstanding, and I highly recommend giving it a try on your next cobia fishing adventure.
Delong Lures – 5″ Sand EEL Lures
I highly recommend the Delong Lures 5″ Sand EEL Lures for avid anglers seeking effective and versatile cobia lures.
Pros
- Made in America since 1946 with millions of satisfied customers
- Lifelike design made with high-quality plastic
- Anise-scented and equipped with animated lure for maximum effectiveness
Cons
- Some users might prefer longer-lasting hard lures
- Limited color options may not suit everyone’s personal preference
- May not be as effective for some smaller fish species
In my recent fishing trip, I decided to try the Delong Lures 5″ Sand EEL Lures, and I was blown away by their effectiveness. The realistic design and high-quality materials used for crafting these lures instantly caught my attention. As someone who has been fishing for years, I know that a lifelike lure is crucial for attracting stubborn fish.
While casting my new Delong Lures, I immediately noticed the alluring anise scent and how the fins animated the lure to move erratically underwater. These features surely played a significant role in reeling in the monstrous cobia I caught that day. Despite their softness, these lures held up well and did not disappoint during my fishing ventures.
Although the Delong Lures served me well on that trip, I have to admit that the limited color options might not suit everyone’s taste. Additionally, while these lures are a great option for bigger fishes like cobia, they may not be as effective for smaller species. Some anglers might also be more inclined to choose hard lures for their durability.
All in all, as a passionate fisherman, I am truly impressed by the Delong Lures 5″ Sand EEL Lures. Their lifelike design, anise scent, and versatile functionality make them a must-have for anyone looking to catch large, stubborn fish like cobia. Just be mindful of the minor drawbacks and tailor your lure choice accordingly.
Savage Gear 3D Real EEL Pre-Rigged
The Savage Gear 3D Real EEL Pre-Rigged lure is a fantastic choice for cobia fishing, given its lifelike appearance and impressive catch rate.
Pros
- Lifelike design and movement
- Pre-rigged for convenience
- Effective for various target species, including cobia
Cons
- May not be durable enough for larger, aggressive fish
- Limited to deeper water situations
- Bulky size may be difficult for some anglers to manage
I recently took the Savage Gear 3D Real EEL Pre-Rigged lure to the reservoir to test its effectiveness in targeting cobia. Upon using it, the lifelike design and movement were immediately apparent, giving me confidence that it would attract fish even in deeper water.
As I started casting, I noticed that the lure was already pre-rigged, saving me time and effort in setting up. This convenient feature allowed me to get right to fishing without any fuss. Additionally, the realistic movement of the lure proved effective in luring cobia and other species like largemouth bass and striped bass.
However, during my outing, I encountered a couple of drawbacks. When a larger pike grabbed the Savage Gear 3D Real EEL, the lure sustained significant damage, leading me to believe it may not hold up as well against more aggressive fish. Moreover, the lure’s bulky size made it a bit challenging to handle for longer casting periods.
Overall, the Savage Gear 3D Real EEL Pre-Rigged 12″ lure is excellent for cobia fishing in deeper waters, thanks to its realistic design and pre-rigged convenience. While it’s not the most durable option and might be hard to manage for some anglers, its effectiveness in attracting various fish species makes it worth considering.
Capt Jay Fishing Saltwater Jigs
I highly recommend this Capt Jay Fishing Saltwater Jig for its durability, effectiveness, and unique features.
Pros
- Made by pro fishing charter captains
- Rust-proof, high strength Japanese steel hook
- Suitable for various larger fish species
Cons
- 60g size might not be ideal in strong currents
- May require additional hook as a trailer
- Handle with care due to extremely sharp hooks
After using the Capt Jay Fishing Saltwater Jig in my recent fishing trips, I found it to be one of the best lures I’ve ever used. The durable construction, high-quality materials, and well-crafted design catered perfectly to my saltwater fishing needs.
What caught my attention about this jig is that it’s specifically made for saltwater pitch jigging and features a Dancing Fire glow assist jigging hook. The multi-layer color laser film coating on the jig adds a touch of realism, which attracts various larger fish like Tuna, Amberjack, Snapper, Cobia, Wahoo, Mackerel Grouper, and more.
As a product made by a local company run by professional fishing charter captains from Key West, Florida, the Capt Jay Fishing Saltwater Jig delivers impressive results. I appreciated the rigidity of the hard shell, which proved to withstand even the toughest environments.
However, be warned that the 60g size may not work well in areas with strong currents, and adding an extra hook as a trailer could boost your catch rate. Additionally, the hooks are extremely sharp, so handle with care and keep out of reach of children.
Overall, I am thrilled with my experience using the Capt Jay Fishing Saltwater Jig, and I look forward to using it on many more fishing adventures.
Dr.Fish 3 Pack Bucktail Jig Lure
I highly recommend these Dr.Fish Bucktail Jig Lures for their durability, versatility, and effectiveness in attracting various fish species.
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Attractive design and lifelike action
- Versatile and effective for various species
Cons
- May lose tail after heavy use
- Only one provided, despite advertisement
- Slightly high-priced for quality
After using these Dr.Fish Bucktail Jig Lures, I found them to be really effective in attracting fish and triggering aggressive strikes. The high-carbon steel hooks, lead head, and genuine bucktail combined with crystal flash and 3D eyes make it hard for fish to resist.
In both freshwater and saltwater environments, these lures held up well, demonstrating their high strength and corrosion resistance. They are perfect companions for my jigging sessions, especially for targeting species like bluefish, stripers, snook, and other inshore dwellers.
However, I did notice that after just a single day of heavy use, the tail on these jigs could start to wear out. On top of that, upon receiving my order, I had only received one instead of the advertised three-pack. This might be a bit off-putting considering the price, which is slightly high for the quality.
Despite some drawbacks, I still believe the Dr.Fish Bucktail Jig Lures offer excellent value for any angler seeking effective and durable lures for their next fishing adventure.
Buying Guide For Cobia Lures
As an angler, I know that choosing the best cobia lure is essential for a successful fishing experience. In this buying guide, I will share some key features and factors to consider while selecting the ideal cobia lure to make your fishing trip efficient and enjoyable.
Firstly, it’s important to pay attention to the lure color. Contrasting and bright colors are generally the most effective. These colors attract cobia by simulating the appearance of baitfish. So, consider purchasing lures with colors that stand out in the water, like fluorescent yellows, reds, and greens.
When it comes to lure size, a bigger lure may attract larger cobia. However, it’s a good idea to have a variety of sizes in your tackle box to match the size of the baitfish that cobia are feeding on. Experimenting with different lure sizes is key to finding what works best.
The action and motion of the lure also play a significant role in fooling cobia. Make sure the lure has a lifelike action that mimics the swimming pattern and movement of the prey. Look for lures with realistic swimming action, like diving plugs and swimbaits.
Durability is another essential factor to consider when choosing a cobia lure. Select lures made of high-quality materials to ensure that they withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing and the powerful jaws of cobia. Opt for lures with solid construction and strong hooks that won’t bend or break under pressure.
Lastly, don’t forget to consider the price of the lure. While high-quality lures can be more expensive, they often last longer and perform better than cheaper alternatives. It’s better to invest in a few reliable, high-performing lures than to constantly deal with broken, low-quality options.
In summary, finding the best cobia lures is all about considering factors like color, size, action, durability, and price. Always keep these factors in mind, and you will be well on your way to a more fulfilling and successful cobia fishing experience.
Common Questions Related to Cobia Fishing
What type of lures work best for cobia?
In my experience, the most effective lures for catching cobia are bucktail jigs, soft plastic baits, and diving plugs. These types of lures mimic the natural prey of cobia, making them irresistible.
Which bucktail color attracts cobia the most?
I’ve found that cobia are mainly attracted to bucktail jigs in bright colors like white, chartreuse, or yellow. That being said, it’s a good idea to have a variety of colors in your tackle box to see what’s working best on any given day.
What features make a cobia jig effective?
An effective cobia jig should have a heavy, streamlined head to improve casting distance and sink rate. Additionally, having a strong, sharp hook is crucial for successful hooksets. A feathered tail or soft plastic trailer can also enhance the jig’s appeal.
What are the top cobia trolling lures?
When I go trolling for cobia, I rely on diving plugs and weighted swimbaits. These lures dive deep and create a realistic swimming action, drawing in cobia from a distance. It’s essential to experiment with different colors and sizes to find the most effective combination.
How does live bait compare to artificial lures for cobia fishing?
Although live bait can be very effective for cobia, artificial lures offer some advantages. They are more durable, allowing me to fish longer without needing to replace the bait. Furthermore, having a variety of lures gives me the flexibility to target cobia under various conditions.
What should be considered when choosing cobia jig trailers?
When selecting trailers for my cobia jigs, I look for soft plastics that complement the size and color of the jig. The trailer should have a lifelike action in the water, and be made of durable material to withstand multiple strikes.
For more guides on choosing the best lure, check out the pages below:
