Once the cobia start running in The Gulf of Mexico, you know spring is right around the corner. The migration pattern of these big game fish take them through the warmer waters of the Emerald Coast, and they are a great sport fish. Tipping the scales at anywhere between 20-40 pounds, these large fish will most certainly put up a fight. Your captain and mate will start your cobia fishing trip perched atop the charter boat. This bird's eye view will give the captain and crew a better idea of where the fish are during their migration. Of course, every captain has his or her secret spots, natural and artificial reefs, grass beds, and inlets where they expect to find cobia. In celebration of the running of the cobia, Destin hosts three prestigious and lucrative cobia tournaments during the spring. The Destin Cobia Fishing Tournament, hosted by HarborWalk Village opens March 1st and runs through April 30th. Registration is open. The Harbor Docks Cobia World Championships begin March 22nd, and run through May 4th. This big prize tournament will recognize fish in Overall, Juniors, Ladies, and under 28 feet categories. With four separate weigh stations, in Destin behind Harbor Docks, in Orange Beach, Pensacola, and Panama City. You can head out for cobia throughout the panhandle for a chance at the prize money. Finally, The 14th Annual Hogs Breath Cobia Shoot Out begins on April 4. This weekend tournament takes advantage of warmer weather and offers big prizes for captains and crews. Cobia fishing is as much a part of the Emerald Coast as spring breakers, so grab your gear and head with an experienced captain for an unforgettable experience.