KABELJOU
Argyrosomus Japonicus
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Also known as COB, KOB, DAGA, SALMON OR SNOTTY, this fish is plentiful in the surf and in the many estuaries of the Eastern Cape. Its name is derived from [ Argyrosomus] meaning silver body and [Japonicus] waiting for translation as this is the "new" species name given after many years of thinking it was [Hololepidotus]. This species is now known as the DUSKY COB and there is much concern about the depletion of stock due to over exploitation of this fish.It has a long body body,getting thick towards the shoulder area, its overall colour is silvery and has a pearly- pink sheen in its live form, a row of"portholes" can be seen on its flanks, its fins are a translucent dusky colour. The Cobs diet consists of small fish, prawns, crabs and when available squid. To hunt their prey they rely on smell and sense, instead of sight. This will account for why they are often caught at night and in discoloured water .
The Cob is a sluggish fighter, strikes fairly hard and then takes off on a short run.Will normally sound when nearing a boat. This is a good fish for the beginer to target as it does not have too many tricks to perform on the unsuspecting angler.Tackle recommended is a 6to8 weight, and a tippet of 10 kg should be strong enough, the Cob has small sharp teeth, but are not saw like.,and unlikely to cut your line.Flies to use are ,Streamer,Deciever, Tarpon or any fly with a longish tail, good colours are red/yellow, pink/blue,and green/white. Cob are not that fussy so we suggest"match the hatch" for best results, the retrieve should be steady and not to fast.Hookups will occur throughout the day but without doubt just before sunrise and just after sunset produce the best results. March/April and August September October are considered the best although catches can be made almost any time.
As this species is under threat please keep only one fish between 1 and 5 kg, return all the rest.