Abstract: Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are crystalline porous materials formed by covalently linking organic molecular units. With precisely tunable molecular structures, surface chemistry, and porosity, they demonstrate unique advantages in oil-water separation, making them ideal materials for separating and adsorbing organic compounds from water. Among these, hydrophobic COFs with oil-loving and water-repelling properties have been successfully functionalized and combined with various matrix materials. They are increasingly applied in practical scenarios such as oil spills, wastewater treatment, and waste oil recovery. Numerous research achievements have enriched the technological framework in this field. This paper systematically reviews the major types of hydrophobic COFs developed in recent years (covering fluorine-modified, alkyl-modified, and aromatic conjugated group-modified COFs). It analyzes typical synthesis strategies for various hydrophobic COFs, compares the technical advantages, applicable scenarios, and limitations of different synthesis methods, and provides directional references for optimizing subsequent material preparation processes. Additionally, this paper examines composite/loaded technologies integrating hydrophobic COFs with carriers such as sponges, separation membranes, and metal meshes, along with their practical progress in oil-water separation applications. It aims to provide guidance for the design, performance optimization, and engineering applications of hydrophobic COF materials in this field, while also contributing to innovations in oil-water separation technology and sustainable development in environmental management.