Best Surf Fishing Reels, Rods, Lures & More: 2024 Edition
Written By: Captain Kody Michael
Surf fishing is an exciting way to catch fish from beaches and shorelines. Equipping yourself properly is key to success and comfort while surf fishing. This article explores the best surf fishing reels, rods, lures, bags, and hooks that are essential for any surf angler.
From specialized rods that can cast long distances, to rugged surf reels that can handle sand and saltwater – having the right gear makes all the difference. We’ll also go over the best surf fishing lures to use from shore, including pompano rigs, bucktail jigs and walking baits that tempt fish in the waves.
Finally, we’ll highlight surf fishing bags, storage and accessories designed for organizing tackle and equipment efficiently while beach fishing.
Top Must-Have Surf Fishing Equipment
Surf Fishing Rods
Surf fishing rods need to be 12-14 feet long in order to make long distance casts past the breaking waves. Graphite and composite rods offer strength while still being lightweight.
Key things to look for are a sensitive blank for detecting bites, sturdy stainless guides that prevent line tangling and a comfortable cork or EVA foam handle. Quality surf rods feature a fast taper design to easily cast heavy sinkers and baits.
Surf Fishing Reels
Knowing what size reel for surf fishing is important for success. Spinning reels in the 5000-6000 size work well for surf casting. Look for sealed components and anti-corrosion protection to prevent sand and saltwater damage. Large capacity spools are best for holding heavy lines up to 30lb test.
A high gear ratio reel with an oscillating spool improves casting distance and accuracy. Other key features include smooth drag pressure for fighting big fish and a bail wire pickup for quickly retrieving slack line.
Surf Fishing Tackle
The right terminal tackle improves efficiency while surf fishing. Stock up on circle and snap swivels to prevent line twist. Use strong barrel swivels when attaching leaders.
For weights, pyramid, bank and spider sinkers from 2-8oz hold well in currents and shifting sands. Leader line from 20-50lb helps withstand abrasions from rocks or debris on the bottom. Finally, have a good sand spike, beach cart and land anchors to secure your rod in the shoreline conditions.
Surf Fishing Accessories
Polarized sunglasses cut glare allowing you to spot fish and structure more easily. A wide brim hat protects from the sun when fishing long hours. Use sun protective clothing and reapply sunscreen often.
Have waders or water shoes to safely access extra casting distance in the water. Also useful are best line for surf fishing clippers, fish grip tools, bait buckets and chum bags that can up your surf fishing game.
Best Surf Fishing Lures
When surf fishing, matching the hatch with effective lures is key to connecting with fish amongst the waves. These are top artificial surf fishing lures and rigs to have in your tackle box.
Pompano Rigs
A pompano rig is deadly for catching these hard-fighting fish from the sand. It consists of a long main line with multiple short, 12-18 inch dropper lines with small #2 hooks. Beads, floats and attractor blades are added.
Fish finder rigs work similarly. Tip the hooks with FishBites synthetic bait or sand fleas. Cast past the breakers and bounce the rig just off the bottom. Head over to my YouTube channel to watch my latest video How To Tie A Fish Finder Rig: Step-By-Step Tutorial to learn how to tie this bottom fishing rig.
Bucktail Jigs
Classic bucktail jigs cast extremely well. White is a versatile color for visibility. Add a plastic trailer like a Gulp! Swimming Mullet or curly tail grub. Work the lure with a sharp popping motion.
Big game fish like stripers, bluefish and snook can’t resist the erratic action. Use 1⁄2 to 2 ounce models to match surf conditions.
Walking Baits
Topwater walking baits are exciting to fish from shorelines, inlets and estuaries. Lures like Rapala Skitter Walks, Heddon Zara Spooks and Rebel Jumpin’ Minnows chug aggressively with an injured baitfish profile that drives predatory fish into a frenzy. Use them early morning and at night when fish are actively feeding in the shallows.
Necessary Surf Fishing Bags
Transporting all your surf fishing gear to and from the beach requires specialized bags and storage solutions. These are the best surf fishing bag for keeping things organized and protected from the harsh saltwater environment.
Waterproof Tackle Bag
Look for a waterproof surf fishing bag or box like the Plano Guide Series Waterproof Bag. It floats if dropped overboard and keeps lures and tackle dry if unexpectedly submerged. Clear utility boxes help organize gear so you can find what you need fast. Have dedicated plano boxes for terminal tackle, rigs, leaders, swivels, hooks and first aid kit items.
Tackle Backpack
A fishing backpack like the Spiderwire Wolf Tackle Bag frees up hands to carry additional rods and equipment. It converts to a sling bag and has plier surf fishing rod holders, sunglass pouches and side pockets galore to store tools. Use the shoulder straps to haul heavy loads after a successful day fishing. The padded protection helps transport fish safely.
Wading/Cart Bag
Serious surf anglers use a specialized wading bag that attaches to a rolling cart for effortlessly covering ground across beaches and difficult terrain to fishing spots. The Fish-n-Mate Mobile Surf Fishing Bag is a great choice with an elevated design to keep dry. You can keep most of your tackle connected and ready to fish at all times. No more lugging around a heavy bag and bucket.
Surf Fishing Reels and Hooks
Choosing saltwater resistant reels and hooks prevents equipment failure while battling heavy fish in rough surf conditions. Let’s learn what size reel for surf fishing:
Saltwater Resistant Reels
Look for sealed reels that prevent sand and saltwater intrusion which can jam gears and bearings. Penn, Shimano, Daiwa and Abu Garcia make excellent surf fishing reels at various price points. Some models like the Penn Spinfisher VI have an IPX5 rating for water resistance against waves crashing over the top. Stainless main shafts resist corrosion and maintain smooth cranking power.
High Strength Fishing Line/Wire Hooks
Wondering about what size hook for surf fishing? The big fish prowling shorelines can easily snap standard line and hooks. Use 30-50lb braided lines or heavy monofilament line. For leaders, single strand wire prevents cutoffs from teeth and abrasions on the bottom.
For hooks, choose strong short shank live bait hooks and circle hooks from reputable brands. Carry a variety of hook sizes from 1/0 to 8/0 for handling panfish to large sharks or rays.
Bait Cannon Launcher
Casting heavy baits is tough with just a fishing rod. Give your arm a break and increase your range even further with a bait cannon launcher. Models from PVC pipe to high-end pneumatic air cannons from companies allow launching chunk baits hundreds of feet to reach prime fishing structure. They are handy for sending baits beyond the heavy shore break.
Conclusion
Equipping yourself with the best surf fishing equipment, tackle and accessories ensures you can safely access the best fishing spots and effectively catch fish from shore. Carrying the essential equipment like specialized surf fishing reels, rods, terminal rigs and tackle, and waterproof surf fishing bags streamlines the process.
Master these fundamentals outlined here and you’ll be landing exciting species from beaches and shorelines in no time!
Drop a Comment!
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