Family Rachycentridae, Cobia
Rachycentron canadum

Description: long, slim fish with broad depressed head; lower jaw projects past upper jaw; dark lateral stripe extends through eye to tail; first dorsal fin comprised of 7 to 9 free spines; when young, has conspicuous alternating black and white horizontal stripes.

Similar Fish: remora, Echeneis naucrates.

Where found: both inshore and nearshore inhabiting inlets and bays; frequently seen around bouys, pilings, and wrecks.

Size: common to 30 pounds.

Note: spawns in spring and early summer; feeds on crabs, squid, and small fish.