Saltwater – Outdoor Empire https://outdoorempire.com Gear Up and Get Outside! Sat, 05 Aug 2023 21:15:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://outdoorempire.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/cropped-OutdoorEmpire_LogoDesign_ClearBack-Color-08-32x32.png Saltwater – Outdoor Empire https://outdoorempire.com 32 32 Surf Fish Types by Region & the Best Bait to Catch Them https://outdoorempire.com/what-fish-do-you-catch-in-surf/ Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:08:23 +0000 https://outdoorempire.com/?p=21819 Surf fishing is a sport where the fisherman stands either on the beach or in the shallow water close to the beach and casts their line into the surf. For those who want to fish in the ocean without a boat, this is a fun option that will still reel in impressive fish. But what ... Read more

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Surf fishing is a sport where the fisherman stands either on the beach or in the shallow water close to the beach and casts their line into the surf.

For those who want to fish in the ocean without a boat, this is a fun option that will still reel in impressive fish. But what fish do you catch in the surf?

The fish that are most commonly caught when surf fishing include saltwater catfish, whiting, shark, striped bass, bluefish, spotted seatrout, flounder, red drum, and pompano. However, hundreds of different kinds of fish can be caught in the surf, depending on the state in which you’re fishing.

While surf fishing has the same general concepts regardless of location, state regulations and surf fishing species vary by region. These differences will be explored further below.

Types of Fish You Can Catch in the Surf by Region

Although surf fishing can be done in any coastal state, there are certain states and places that will bring in more fish than others. If you are looking to catch a certain fish species, some places in the U.S. are better than others.

If you don’t know what you want to catch and you just want to have a good time fishing at the beach, here are recommendations for the best areas and the kind of fish that live in the surf at each.

Saltwater catfish in man's hand
This small saltwater catfish wasn’t afraid to go after a big bait.

Gulf of Mexico

By far one of the best places in the United States to go surf fishing is the Gulf of Mexico. This area is ideal because of the temperate water and warm weather.

The Gulf of Mexico includes the western coast of Florida, southern Alabama, southern Louisiana, southern Mississippi, and the eastern coast of Texas.

The most prized catch is the Florida Pompano, which can only be caught on the gulf shores. Known as the best-tasting fish in the sea, this fish can be caught with sand fleas and a lot of patience.

Whiting and redfish are also among the most common fish caught in the Gulf. The sizes that fall within regulation are good for eating, and when the schools are running the surf, they give you the chance to catch big fish.

Speckled trout are another easy fish to catch on the Gulf shores and are good eating. The black drum, the distant cousin of the red drum, can grow up to 50 pounds in this area, making it a fun opportunity to catch a big fish. However, the older ones are not good for eating because they are tough and usually have worms.

Mackerels are tricky, as the Spanish mackerel is abundant in the area but can be easily confused with a baby king mackerel, which is illegal to catch.

Bluefish, sharks, flounder, ladyfish, and stingrays are all other extremely common kinds of fish found in the Gulf of Mexico.

Florida

Fisherman holding small pompano
The first Pompano I caught in Florida was too small to keep, but they sure are purdy!

Florida is known for its vast range of marine life, making it a hotspot for coastal fishing. The majority of public beaches in Florida allow for surf fishing. All you need to do is get a saltwater fishing permit and fish within the permitted hours.

Popular species surf fishermen seek out in Florida include:

  • Southern kingfish (whiting)
  • Pompano
  • Snook
  • Red drum
  • Black drum
  • Croaker
  • Bluefish

That’s not a complete list, but those are some of the favorites.

The most common surf fish caught in Florida are whiting and the Florida pompano. Both of these fish are known for their excellent flavor and high population in Florida’s warm waters.

I took two trips to Florida recently to fish and the locals at the bait shops all confirmed that Pompano is the best-eating surf fish. They have a light texture and flavor that make for excellent fish tacos after a long sunny day on the beach.

Sand perch is another type of fish found in Florida. It was the first surf fish I caught in Florida.

Sand perch surf fish
The first surf fish I caught was this little sand perch.

On my first couple trips all the fish I caught were small. What do you expect from a trout fisherman from Idaho?

But man is surf fishing in Florida a blast!

Southern Atlantic Coast

The Southeast, especially North Carolina, is known for its incredible surf fishing. Large fish are frequently caught here, and the migration season in the spring and fall offers you a chance to bring in lots of red and black drums.

The most common kinds of fish that you will find on the Southeast coast include red and black drum, bluefish, croaker (or kingfish), cobia, pompano, flounder, mackerel, mullet, sheepshead, spot, striped bass, and gray trout.

surf fishing rods and gear fixed by the shore

Northeast U.S.

Fishing in the Northeastern region of the United States can be an exciting experience.  Small fishing towns get their whole personality from the fish they catch, and their seasons are determined by whichever fish is currently running.

The most popular fish that you will find north of Virginia are the striped bass, American shad, monkfish, dogfish, bluefish, and false albacore.

It is worth noting that striped bass is the most sought-after fish in the northeast, with record-breaking specimens caught in New England (81 pounds). Entire towns get caught up in the frenzy when the bass run. The false albacore or “little tuna” is a fun fish to catch but has tough meat and is not desirable to eat.

Pacific Coast

There are two drastically different worlds of fishing when it comes to the Pacific coast, similar to the Atlantic coast. The northern part, near Oregon, and then the southern part, near California.

The Oregon coast offers lots of fishing. But bigger fish like sturgeon and salmon generally can’t be caught in the surf. The most common saltwater fish caught from the shore are herring, with rockfish, lingcod, greenling, cabezon, and surfperch also being very populous.

In California, the fish you can catch varies by location because of the diverse coastline. Rocks, cliffs, seaweed, and sand all host different species, but the most common fish you can catch anywhere in southern California include yellowfin, spot fin croaker, corbina, halibut, leopard sharks, and walleye surfperch.

angler surf fishing during sunrise

Best Bait for Surf Fishing

Your bait when surf fishing will vary depending on what kind of fish you want to catch. Your bait is easily considered the most important component of successful surf fishing. If you don’t catch your own bait, don’t hesitate to pay a little bit more money to get better dead or artificial bait. The results will be worth the cost!

While most fish prefer live bait, frozen bait preserved in salt water is also a good option. However, if you are looking to reel in bigger game fish or even a shark, you will need bigger bait than half a shrimp head.

Live Bait

There are several live bait options. Knowing which type of fish are attracted to each one is helpful before you go out and catch (or buy) your bait.

Shrimp

Live shrimp are fish’s favorite food in the southern regions of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Using these as bait in the deeper water just past the breaking waves will almost guarantee a catch. Hooking the bait in a way that still allows them to swim is best and will bring the fish in more quickly. 

Using shrimp as bait will bring in pompano, halibut, redfish, speckled trout, black drum, and mackerel.

Fresh shrimp, hooks, and sinkers on a towel
Some fresh shrimp, hooks, and sinkers will get you started surf fishing.

Crabs

Small crabs are also an easy option for bait, and you can collect them yourself. Looking near rocky areas and underneath piers will be your best bet to find enough to use as bait. Again, hook placement that guarantees movement from the crab will bring in more fish.

The fish best baited with crabs are snook, permit, grouper, redfish, and black drum.

Mullet

Mullet is a great bait option for catching larger fish, but the key to good fishing is to use LIVE mullet as bait. If they are swimming and thrashing around, it will quickly attract more fish.

There are often schools of mullet just past the breaking waves. So in order to catch your own bait, cast your line just behind a breaking wave. You will be amazed at what you can reel in.

Mullet can help you reel in sharks, mackerel, and kingfish, to name just a few.

Sand Fleas

Last but not least, sand fleas are a cheap and easy option for live bait. You can catch them yourself with a rake. However, they often die when being hooked because of their small size, so you may need to switch them out more frequently.

The fish that like sand fleas the most are speckled trout, snapper, grouper, black drum, and redfish.

Shrimp bait on a hook
The local pompano record holder who ran a bait shop set me up with with this rig with fresh shrimp and sand flea flavored Fish Bites.

Dead Bait

Some regulations don’t allow for the use of live bait for certain fish or during certain times of the year. If this is the case, or if it’s a lazy day and you don’t want to catch your bait, dead bait can be used instead.

However, the same bait that works when it’s alive doesn’t always work as well when it’s dead or frozen. You may need to change it up depending on what you want to catch.

Herring

Herring is a good option for cut bait and is most common in the northern regions of the US. It can be used to catch king salmon, coho salmon, sharks, steelhead, halibut, and striped bass.

Shrimp

It turns out that shrimp can be just as good dead as it is alive, so using frozen shrimp to catch fish will work just fine as bait.

Squid

Squid is a good bait option for when the waves are large and choppy. Relatively easy to find frozen or fresh, you can cut up the squid into small chunks before casting your line. The fish that like squid include bonefish, kahawai, pink snapper, and bluefish.

Artificial Bait

Artificial bait is another option for areas with more regulations, and it works almost as well as live bait.

Spoons

Spoons are another bait option that works well if you are looking to cast far into the surf. This lure is popular when fishing in northern regions and will bring in lingcod, salmon, and speckled trout.

Topwater Plugs

Topwater plugs do an excellent job of attracting more aggressive predator fish, such as tuna, tarpon, giant trevally, steelhead, and snook.

Softbait Jigs

Softbait jigs are great to use when trying to catch bottom feeders, as they can look like wounded smaller fish. They will attract redfish, black drum, kahawai, and bonefish. 

angler surf fishing

Surf Fishing Regulations

Knowing the state and federal laws surrounding saltwater fishing is essential to avoid fines and penalties. Most states have protected fish that you cannot catch, and there are often laws surrounding what kind of bait can be used to catch certain fish.

Since North Carolina is a hotspot for surf fishing, the laws surrounding coastal fishing in that state will be used as an example here.

Licensing

First and foremost, a coastal recreational fishing license for people older than 16 must be obtained to do any kind of surf or pier fishing.

Limits

There are size and bag limits for each seasonal fish. You are responsible for knowing what they are and if certain fish can even be caught. For example, it is illegal in North Carolina to fish for or catch any type of flounder.

There are regulations surrounding dolphins, clams, crabs, and shrimp, and the inland fishing regulations also apply to coastal fishing for three miles out into the Atlantic.

While these laws apply specifically to the North Carolina coast, there are similar laws and regulations for every state that you can go coastal fishing in. Again, it is important to be aware of these regulations before going out and spending the day fishing.

It is also important to note that pier fishing may have different laws than surf fishing, even though some people use these terms interchangeably.

Final Thoughts on Surf Fish Species

There are countless kinds of fish caught by surf fishing. Because of the difficult coastline on the west coast, surf fishing is easier on the east coast.

The temperate water and warmer weather in the Southeast make it ideal for recreational surf fishermen. But the bigger fish can be caught in the Northeast and Northwest.

If surf fishing interests you, find a fishing shop on a coastline near you. They are always full of helpful information and will help you find the best bait for the best fish.

Related: The Best Surf Fishing Rods Reviewed (Hands-on Guide)

The post Surf Fish Types by Region & the Best Bait to Catch Them appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

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6 Best Surf Fishing Rods Reviewed (Hands-on Guide) https://outdoorempire.com/best-surf-rods-buyer-guide/ Wed, 10 Mar 2021 15:00:18 +0000 https://outdoorempire.com/?p=4310 Whether you are fishing for buckets full of croakers or targeting the largest cobia in the cove, fishing is always more relaxing when there is sand between your toes and seagulls in the distance. Surf fishing allows you to catch a wide variety of species, using different lures and baits, without the need to access ... Read more

The post 6 Best Surf Fishing Rods Reviewed (Hands-on Guide) appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

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Whether you are fishing for buckets full of croakers or targeting the largest cobia in the cove, fishing is always more relaxing when there is sand between your toes and seagulls in the distance.

Surf fishing allows you to catch a wide variety of species, using different lures and baits, without the need to access a boat or pier. It is also a great way to combine family time with fishing time, as most kids love the activity (at least, for a while).

You might have to assist with casting and hook sets for young kids but that’s a small price to pay for the chance to introduce them to the world of fishing. Besides, there’s always the chance that they hook something particularly delicious or noteworthy.

But to have any reasonable chance of success from the shore, you need some gear designed specifically for the job. Start your gear collection by first selecting a good surf rod.

Because different anglers face different situations and prioritize different things, it is impossible to identify any single surf rod as the best for all situations. However, we’ve identified a few of the best options for anglers in different circumstances.

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The 6 Top Surf Rods Of 2021: Outdoor Empire Reviews

These are our top 6 recommendations for surf rods of 2021:

  1. Best overall: Okuma Longitude Surf Rod
  2. Best for the money: Take Tica Surf UMGA Series
  3. Best rod & reel combo: Take Penn Battle II combo
  4. Best for long range casting: Take St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod
  5. Best for small anglers: Take Ugly Stik Inshore Select
  6. Best cheap: Take Ugly Stik Surf Casting Rod

*Looking for a specific feature? Check out our quick-reference chart below:

ProductTica Surf UMGA
Tica Surf UMGA

Penn Battle II Combo
Penn Battle II Combo

St. Croix Mojo Surf
St. Croix Mojo Surf

Ugly Stik Inshore Select Spinning
Ugly Stik Inshore Select Spinning

Rod Weight7.72 oz(not specified by manufacturer)6.2 oz(not specified by manufacturer)
Line Weight10 - 25 lbs4 - 10 lbs6 - 12 6 - 15
ActionModerate FastMedium FastModerate FastModerate
PowerMediumMedium LightMedium LightMedium Light
CostCheck Price



Check PriceCheck PriceCheck Price

1. The Best Overall Surf Rod

If you are looking for the best all-around surf rod — one that will be versatile and come at a reasonable price without sacrificing quality — it will be hard to beat the Longitude series by Okuma.

It is available in several lengths (9 to 12 inches) and medium to heavy power, so there is sure to be one that fits your surf fishing needs. Every model includes a graphite composite blank for the perfect combination of strength and weight.

They also include stainless-steel hooded guides with aluminum oxide inserts, cork or cork-EVA grips and come in an easily transportable two-piece design. Both spinning and casting models are available.

PROS

  • Traditional cork grips aid in securing a tight hold when wet
  • Extremely sensitive for a large surf rod
  • Come in a variety of lengths to suit different techniques or when targeting different species
  • The two-piece design makes transportation hassle-free

CONS

  • Large, heavy rod
  • Long models can be a bit stiffer than some may like

If you are a surf angler with an eye for quality but a tight budget, the Longitude is the rod for you. It offers all the features you need, the quality you want and a price you can live with.

2. Best Surf Rod for the Money

Tica Surf UMGA Series
$182.00
View on Amazon
08/15/2023 04:27 pm GMT

Everyone would love to use a rod made from the finest materials that has all of the best features that money can buy but only few anglers have a couple of thousand dollars to spend on a fishing pole.

Accordingly, it is important to select something that performs well but lacks the exorbitant price tag of high-end rods.

Tica Surf - UMGA

The Tica Surf UMGA Series includes some great surf fishing rods and their reasonable price tags make them an incredible value. It includes rods ranging from 7’ to 10’ in length, and your choice of two different actions and three different power ratings.

Notable Features

  • TC2 Japanese graphite construction provides an excellent combination of strength and sensitivity
  • Lightweight blank helps reduce fatigue so you can fish for hours
  • Non-slip cork handle is comfortable and highly durable
  • High-quality zirconium line guides help increase casting distance
  • Available in one- and two-piece designs

3. Best Surf Rod-and-Reel Combo

Penn Battle II Combo
$169.99
View on Amazon
08/15/2023 04:29 pm GMT

While most advanced anglers prefer a rod and reel separately, others (particularly those who just started with surf fishing) would rather just purchase a rod-and-reel combo.

This helps eliminate the possibility of selecting a rod that doesn’t work with a given reel or vice versa.

The Penn Battle II Combo provides anglers with the chance to hit the beach and get their line wet without having to worry about choosing among dozens of different rods and reels. Additionally, it is very affordable given the quality it provides.

Notable Features

  • Graphite composite blank provides a great combination of sensitivity, strength, and performance
  • Aluminum oxide guides withstand years of surf, sand, and sun
  • 5+1 stainless steel ball bearing reel ensures smooth operation
  • Available in several lengths, ranging from 6’6” to 10’
  • Compatible with braided or monofilament line

4. Best Surf Rod For Long Distance Casting: St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod

Bulk of your surf-angling success depends on your ability to put your lure or bait beyond the breaking waves, where most of the fish congregate.

While technique plays a large part in casting distance, some rods are more likely to help you launch lures into orbit than others are.

St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod

There are few surf rods that’ll help you cast farther than the 12-foot-long St. Croix Mojo Surf Spinning Rod but you have to pay about twice as much to get this kind of quality.

Made with the same craftsmanship that St. Croix is famous for, you’ll surely love your Mojo rod the first time you cast it.

Notable Features

  • Graphite blank provides unmatched sensitivity for detecting even the lightest bites
  • Weight-saving surf guides help prevent fatigue and provide better rod balance
  • Moderate fast action enables rock-solid hooksets even on the longest casts
  • Custom X-wrap handle provides a secure yet comfortable grip
  • Offset ferrules allow these two-piece rods to perform like a one-piece model

5. Best Surf Rod for Small Anglers

Surf fishing presents particular challenges to those on the shorter side especially youngsters. A 5-foot tall person usually struggles to control a rod that is more than twice their height which can make it difficult to achieve suitable casting distance.

However, there are a few surf rods that are more comfortable for smaller anglers.

Ugly Stik rods are well-known for being both durable and affordable, and the Ugly Stik Inshore Select Spinning Rod is not an exception.

Made in both 7’ and 7’6” lengths, this is great for those anglers who can’t comfortably wield the extra-long rods used by other anglers.

Notable Features

  • Stainless steel guides feature a one-piece design to eliminate popped out inserts
  • Graphite and fiberglass construction provides a great combination of sensitivity and durability
  • Super-durable EVA grips are comfortable and lightweight
  • Comes with a 7-year limited warranty so that you can purchase with confidence
  • Clear-tip design improves sensitivity so you don’t miss light biting fish

6. The Best Cheap Surf Rod

While high-quality surf rods have usually been quite expensive, a few manufacturers have begun producing capable surf fishing rods for very reasonable prices.

The Ugly Stik Surf Casting Rod is a great example, as it is very affordable, yet it provides the type of quality serious anglers demand. In fact, the Ugly Stik Surf Casting Rod outperforms many rods that cost twice as much.

Made from a combination of graphite and fiberglass, the Ugly Stik Surf Casting Rod provides plenty of durability and strength, while still giving anglers the sensitivity to detect light strikes from small fish.

The Ugly Stik Surf Casting Rod comes in 10- and 12-foot-long models, in both heavy and extra-heavy powers.

Notable Features

  • It comes with corrosion-resistant Ugly Tuff 1-piece stainless steel guides and durable EVA grips, the Ugly Stick Surf Casting Rod is built to last.
  • Backed by the manufacturer’s 7-year limited warranty.

View on Amazon

Important Choosing Factors

surf rod and reel

There is a considerable variation among surf rods so it is important to choose one that works best for your circumstances. This primarily means considering three fundamental aspects:

Casting Distance

Usually, you want to get your bait or lure out past the breaking waves when surf fishing. The water past this point not only contains more catchable fish, but it is also easier to work your lure or bait in this relatively calm water.

But this means you need to be able to cast these often impressive distances and maintain some semblance of accuracy when doing so.

The two most important criteria factoring into casting distance are:

  1. rod length
  2. rod action

When all other factors are kept the same, a longer fishing pole improves your casting distance so most surf rods measure between 9 and 14 feet in length.

The flip side of this coin is that a shorter rod is easier to use and is more accurate; so as with every other aspect of angling, everything is a tradeoff.

Likewise, when all other things are consistent, those with slower actions increase your casting range. This occurs because slow action rods bend farther than those with faster actions. So the slower the action, the more help you get from the rod.

However, as with increased rod length, slower actions reduce casting accuracy.

Target Species and Size

surf fisher with his catch

You obviously need different gear to drag in a 400-pound blacktip compared to a 2-pound jack. Consider the species you are targeting before selecting your fishing stick.

The more specific you can be, the better. But you can have a good all-around surf rod by simply splitting the difference. Of course, you get peak performance by having specific rods but real-world considerations often require anglers to compromise.

There are a million exceptions, but the basic rule of thumb is to select heavier powers and longer lengths when targeting larger fish. The additional length and power let you set the hook more quickly and play big fish more efficiently.

But the longest rods are more tiring to use and they are difficult for smaller people to handle. If you are only fishing for small species, you may as well make things easier and go with a slightly shorter and lighter rod.

Preferred Baits or Lures

The type of bait or lure you like to use should also influence your selection. If you like to use lures, particularly light-weight plugs or small spoons, have a lightweight rod with a fast- or extra-fast action.

fishing lure

By contrast, if you like to chuck a 4-ounce hunk of lead and a 6-inch baitfish out into the water, you need a slower action and heavier power to get the best results.

You may also want to give consideration to the style of rod and reel you use, based on your preferred bait or lure.

For example, if you prefer to fish by repeatedly retrieving small lures and you are not comfortable tempting fate with hundreds of casts of a baitcasting rig, you may have more fun fishing a spinning rig.

You’ll lose a little casting distance in the process, but you’ll avoid backlashes entirely.

Final Thoughts

Any of the rods or combos mentioned above can help you catch more fish at the beach. Just be sure to consider your circumstances and preferences so that you can select the fishing stick suited for you.

Do you have a favorite surf rod? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below.

If you want to learn more about fishing rods in general, check our “Choosing The Best Fishing Rod & 6 Picks Reviewed“ guide.

The post 6 Best Surf Fishing Rods Reviewed (Hands-on Guide) appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

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Surf Fishing 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Beach Fishing Gear & Casting https://outdoorempire.com/beginners-guide-to-surf-fishing/ https://outdoorempire.com/beginners-guide-to-surf-fishing/#comments Mon, 25 Jun 2018 10:24:55 +0000 https://outdoorempire.com/?p=9410 Whether you’re jigging for bass at your local pond, trolling for stripers at the local reservoir or battling giant marlin miles from the shore, you can have fun fishing in a number of different ways. After all, most types of fishing are pretty fun, and they represent a great way to spend the day.  But as far as many ... Read more

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Whether you’re jigging for bass at your local pond, trolling for stripers at the local reservoir or battling giant marlin miles from the shore, you can have fun fishing in a number of different ways. After all, most types of fishing are pretty fun, and they represent a great way to spend the day. 

But as far as many anglers are concerned, there’s nothing quite like fishing from the beach, while feeling the sand between your toes and listening to the soundtrack provided by the gulls and crashing waves. And because you never know what you may catch, surf fishing is not only healthy and relaxing, but exciting too.  

But to surf fish effectively, you’ll need to learn the basics. We’ll try to help you do exactly that below, by explaining the gear you’ll need and the techniques you’ll employ.

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Surf Fishing Gear and Tackle: Tools of the Trade 

sur fishing gearAt its core, surf fishing is pretty similar to fishing for catfish, bluegill or carp at your local lake. Accordingly, you can – at least theoretically – use the same type of gear. You could head out to the beach with your 7-foot-long baitcasting rig and start trying to cast a sinker rig out beyond the waves.  

However, you’re unlikely to have a lot of success doing so (and your reel will likely start to have issues if it is not rated for saltwater use). Instead, you’ll want to obtain a rod, reel and tackle kit that is specifically designed for fishing in the surf zone. We’ll discuss each of these types of things below: 

Surf Rod 

St. Croix Legend Surf Casting Rod
St. Croix Legend Surf Casting Rod – one of the best overall surf rods.

Because rod length is one of the key factors that determines how far you’ll be able to cast, and you’ll want to be able to cast your lure out 100 to 200 yards to get it beyond the crashing waves, most best surf rods are relatively long. Unlike the 6- to 8-foot-long rods used by most anglers fishing from boats or in freshwater, surf rods are usually between 9 and 15 feet in length.  

It can take a bit of practice to learn how to wield such a long rod effectively, so beginners are usually best served by selecting a rod in the 10- to 12-foot-long range at the outset. Select a rod with a medium-heavy power and a medium action, which will work well in most circumstances.  

Surf Reel, Main Line and Leaders 

spinning reel and lineYou certainly don’t need to spend several hundred dollars on a top-of-the-line reel when you are getting started. Just pick a high-capacity saltwater spinning reel. Some shore fishers prefer baitcasting reels, but beginners will be wise to stick to spinning gear at the outset.  

You’ll want to load up your reel with a high-quality fishing line, which will work well in the surf. Most surf fishers use regular monofilament for their main line, but you can use fluorocarbon if you don’t mind the higher price. Typically, you’ll want to use 20- to 25-pound-test line, which is strong enough for most fish you’ll catch 

You’ll also need to use a shock leader when fishing from the shore. A shock leader is used to help absorb the stress that heavy weights and long casts can place on the line. Shock leaders are typically made from low-stretch monofilament, and they are available in a wide variety of diameters.  

Additionally, depending on the type rig you use, you may need a few other leaders. You’ll usually need one that stretches between the end of the shock leader and the hook or sinker, and you may also need one that branches off the main line via a three-way swivel and ties to a hook or sinker. Fluorocarbon is typically the best choice for these types of leaders, but monofilament will also work.  

Tackle and Rigs 

surf line and rigMost surf fishing entails the use of live or cut bait, attached to any of several different types of sinker rig. To tie one of these rigs, you’ll need a few different pyramid-style sinkers, a few swivels (both two-way and three-way versions), a length of shock leader, a length of fluorocarbon leader and a few hooks.  

There are an infinite number of surf fishing sinker rigs you can use, but you can rig up a basic version by following the steps below: 

  1. Tie a length of shock leader onto your main line. The shock leader can be tied directly to the main line with an Albright special knot or you can tie it to a two-way barrel swivel with a Uni knot. 
  2. Thread a 4- to 8-ounce pyramid sinker onto the end of the shock leader, and then tie the terminal end of the shock leader to a barrel swivel with another Uni knot.  
  3. Tie your fluorocarbon leader to the other side of the barrel swivel with another Uni knot and tie your hook on to the opposite end of the leader with an improved clinch knot, Trilene knot or Palomar knot.  

bait fishCircle hooks are typically the best option for beginners, as they’ll typically cause the fish to hook itself. However, treble hooks also work well, and they are usually quite effective.  

Your choice of bait will vary depending on your location and target species. Cut squid or mullet are popular choices, as are whole shrimp, sand fleas (which you can dig up from the beach), clams or bloodworms. Anglers fishing for big fish or sharks may even use whole mullets or stingrays.  

When you are getting started, you’ll be best served by selecting a good all-around bait like cut squid or mullet. These will both produce bites along most shorelines, and they’re attractive to a variety of gamefish.  

You can also use lures to fish from the shore, but they’re not as easy to use as cut or live bait is. Spoons are among the most effective lures to use, but there are also a number of crankbaits, plugs and jigs that are also effective.   

Tools 

surf fishing toolsYou’ll also want to bring a few tools with you when you head down to the beach. Experienced surf fishers often bring along an extensive set of tools, but you can get started by just assembling the following: 

  • A pair of needle-nosed pliers with built-in cutting blades for removing hooks, cutting lines and similar tasks.   
  • A knife for cutting lines, cleaning fish and cutting bait.  
  • A sand spike (a 3-foot-long piece of PVC with a sharpened end that you stick in the sand) to hold your rod while waiting for a bite.  
  • A cooler to keep your catch cold until you are done fishing.  
  • A surf cart to help you haul your gear down to the water (optional).  

You’ll also want to make sure you bring all of the necessary clothing you’ll need (including a hat to protect you from the sun and a pair of flip-flops or other beach-appropriate shoes). A good pair of polarized sunglasses are also helpful and be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen – even on overcast days.  

Basic Surf Fishing Techniques 

surf fishermenSurf fishing isn’t terribly complicated, although there are a number of different ways anglers approach the activity. Essentially, you’ll need to begin by picking a good spot, setting up your gear and tying on a baited rig.  

You’ll learn the ins and outs of location selection with practice (you’ll need to learn to “read” the surf), but to start, you can just cheat by looking where the other shore fishers are working. Be sure that you don’t crowd them – just head to the same general area, while still leaving 50 to 100 yards between you and the closest anglers.  

At this point, you’re ready to cast. Don’t try to haul off and launch the rig to the horizon, just execute a nice, easy cast that gets your rig beyond the bulk of the crashing waves. Your casting distance will come with time and practice. Once the rig is in the water and settles down into the sand, close the bail on your reel.  

Now you must simply wait for a bite. You can hold the rod if you like, but because it’ll likely take a while to attract a fish, many anglers prefer to slide their rod down into a sand spike, to keep their hands free. In fact, serious surf fishers typically bring several rods along, which they’ll use simultaneously.  

surf fishers waiting for catchYou’re now free to kick back and relax while waiting for a bite. Eventually, you’ll likely notice the tip of your rod bending forward – that’s your fish. It’ll likely hook itself if you use circle hooks, but it’s always a good idea to pull back on the rod a bit to ensure proper hook penetration. This will also help you pull the sinker free of the sand, which will help you reel in your catch.  

*** 

As you can see, surf fishing is a pretty straightforward activity, and you don’t need a whole lot of specialized equipment or knowledge to have a great time on the water. Just follow the tips above, talk to the locals (especially the ones that keep dragging fish out of the surf), and get out on the beach.  

The post Surf Fishing 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Beach Fishing Gear & Casting appeared first on Outdoor Empire.

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