If you’re in Myrtle Beach and craving real action, you don’t have to head far offshore. Cobia are cruising nearshore in Murrells Inlet right now and you can get in on the fight without spending hours at sea.
These fish are big, curious, and right in your backyard. Picture pitching live bait to a dark shadow cruising the surface, and next thing you know, you’re wrestling a fish that can reach 50 pounds or more—all within sight of land. It’s an adrenaline rush that’s shockingly close to shore.
The South Carolina Cobia Fishing Experience
You won’t find this kind of action on a beach chair. Our cobia trips take you to reefs, wrecks, jetties, and even beachfront waters just offshore. We anchor near structure where baitfish gather and cobia move in to hunt. Experience includes:
- Watch cobia sunning themselves on the surface
- Pitch live menhaden, mullet, or artificials fast
- Hook a big fish only minutes after you drop a line
- Enjoy hands-on help from expert guides
This is serious catch-and-release excitement with the chance to land a memorable table fish too.
What’s Biting and Why Summer Works
- Season: Cobia arrive in May once water temps break around 70°F and stick around into mid-summer, usually through August.
- Size: Expect 40–60 pounders—50 pound fish are common during the May to June window .
- Behavior: These fish follow schools of menhaden and cruise near surface. They are curious, often coming right up to boats—perfect for pitching.
Jetties and reefs just a few miles offshore hold consistently steady cobia action. May through August is when numbers peak and trophy strikes show up.
How We Catch Them
- Sight fishing: On calm mornings you can spot cobia cruising near wrecks and buoys. Pitch directly to them and watch the rod tip go wild.
- Live bait tactics: Pitch a live menhaden or mullet on circle hook or fish a bucktail rig—get your pitch in quick; cobia hit fast and disappear just as fast.
- Nearshore structure: Reefs and wrecks in 40–50 feet of water are prime hangouts. A short boat ride takes us right to the heart of the action.
A True Family Friendly Adventure
Yes this is big fish action without the long offshore ride:
- Boat is close to shore, trip lasts half or full day
- Gear and techniques are easy for kids and beginners
- Bites are visual—the thrill is instant when you see the fish come to the surface
- Plus these fish are great on the table—bring home a healthy meal
Cobia Fishing Q&A
| Question | Answer |
| When is peak cobia season? | May through August, with May and June offering the largest fish |
| How big are they? | Commonly 40–60 lb. Fifty pound fish are no surprise |
| Do we need to go offshore? | No. Most fish are nearshore around reefs, wrecks, and beach waters |
| How do we catch them? | Sight fishing and live bait pitching are best bets |
Book Now—Cobia Wait for No One
Use promo code getontheboat2025 online for 10 percent off your charter.
Call or text (843) 347 4464
Book now at fishfinderfishing.com
Land That Cobia, Tell That Story
Imagine lowering a live bait, seeing a big shadow come into view, and hooking into a cobia—all within sight of land. That’s the thrill of summer in Murrells Inlet. No long runs. No waiting. Just you, the fish, and one unforgettable fight.
Let’s go get you on it.
