Surf Fishing

Here are some tips for surf fishing referencing other posts on this website.

Use a 10' to 12' pole that can handle 1 to 6oz weights with a 4000 reel loaded with 20lb test braid. I like a bright line so that it is easy for me to see.  I use a PVC sand spike to hold my rod because I like to have several out at a time with different baits and different distances from the shore. I tend to use the dropper rig with a pyramid sinker. When the current is very strong, I will switch to a sputnik-style sinker. Typical bait is fresh dead shrimp and Fishbites of various flavors. 2/0 circle hooks are good all around.

Fishing structure is ideal. Structure is any sort of change. It could be objects such as jetties, or it can be topographical such as sandbars. You can spot the sandbars by observing wave action and water flow. Often there will be a sandbar within casting distance of the beach. The sandbar may also have breaks in it, allowing water in the trough to run out. Fishing either side of the sandbar as well as around the runout are best practices. Using several rods allows you to try different areas until you find where the fish are gathering. Sometimes a short move down the beach will result in a big difference in action.