Let’s go to the beach

Surf Fishing

Part 1


Introduction to Surf Fishing:


Have you ever wondered if there was a way to go to the beach and catch big game fish without having to pay big game charters to do it?   Well, look now further there is a highly affordable way to do just that.   It’s called surf fishing or surf casting.


This sport is done with rod and reel from the sands of the beach. First on the list is to choose the correct gear, like most things in life you get what you pay for. However; you can get into surf fishing out fit for 30 bucks. This will just include rod and real such as a   7ft rod and a light spinning real. Keep in mind that if this is your first time there is no point in spending up to $3,000 on a fishing outfit. Make sure that you know if you’ll enjoy the sport first.


After those first couple of times, if you fall in love with this type of fishing like I did and enjoy  going out on the beach and casting from the sand  then some of the  reels that I really like fishing with and would suggest are Penn Reels. I have 2 of the Penn Fierce, which is a spinning reel and a fathom. This is a heavy duty reel for bringing in big reds, strippers, and even 6ft black tip sharks.

 Keep these points in mind when looking for a reel:  a line capacity of 300yds of at least 20lb mono is great for the small to medium size catch and will handle most fish in the surf.

However; if you decide to get serous you will have to look into a heavier outfit. You will need one that can handle a 65lb braid and 500yds is preferable, especially if you plan on fighting big fish a big fish can run out a lot of line in a hurry.


Next, let’s talk about rods. The first thing most people think of is a lone fisherman on the beach with a towering rod that ranges from 10 to 15ft. Although, that is not necessary. I started catching whiting from the surf with a 7 and1/2ft rod. Of course the big fish are generally farther out but for the beginner it is a great set up. When shopping for rods check out the   “Ocean Master” by Off Shore Angler, and the Ugly Stick, which can be picked up at your local Wal-Mart.


Part 2 post, of this topic will be based on rig tying

 And as always good fishing and God Bless

Ryan