Answer
Cobia have flat heads, dark lateral stripes, and no true shark teeth—juvenile sharks and smooth dogfish appear in the same chum slicks. Misidentification risks fines and wasted tags. When unsure at the rail, release and learn profiles before keeping fish.
Sources: Maryland DNR · NOAA Fisheries · Visit Ocean City
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
