Tackling the Surf
What could be better than waves crashing on the beach, the smell of salt in the air, and walking for miles along a sandy beach? There is one thing that could enhance the experience, that would be learning how to fish those waves. All too often, anglers are not exactly sure where to start tackling the surf. There are a number of concerns, including, which beaches are good for fishing, and what the costs involved are as well as what type of tackle they need.
The best thing about surf fishing is it does not mean that you have to spend a ton of money to get started. You might actually be surprised to learn that the old fishing rod that you got years ago that has been laying around in the garage, the attic, or the basement is perfectly suitable. Look around and see if you can find an 8 foot or larger rod, and add some of those lead weights that you have been collecting for years.
When you considering tackling the surf, you will need a rod and reel that will allow you the ability to cast up to 4 ounces of weight. This means your fishing rod will have to have a fast action tip, and be fairly strong. Remember, 8 feet is a minimum because you will need leverage in order to get a good distance into the surf. It is also important, that your reel is well-balanced, and allows for up to 200 yards of at least 17 pound test and in some cases, even heavier monofilament.
A sliding weight system, snap swivel, a hook and leader of the most typical bait rigs that are used for surf fishing. Remember, the idea is for the fish to pick up the bait without feeling the resistance of an oversized sinker. You can accomplish this either by using a slider, or fish finder rig. Fish finder rigs are hollow sleeves, with large snaps. What they allow, is the attaching of the sinker to the clip, so that when the fish picks up your bait, the sinker stays at the bottom. During this time, the line slides to the fish finder rig and the fish do not feel the resistance they normally would. Your swivel will prevent the slider from landing near your hook. The leader should always be about 2 feet with a hook on the end.
Artificial plugs and spoons are important to have as part of their tackle. It is not unusual for artificial lures to provide better results than live bait. This is especially true, if Fisher actively feeding on the surface. In these cases, top water plugs will attract them far quicker than live bait. You may want to consider having 2 rods with you, one that you are using for live bait, and the other one outfitted with an artificial lure.
If you have any questions at all about which beaches provide the best surf fishing, chances are they can be answered at a local tackle shop. Not only will local tackle shop owners generally know the best fishing spots, they will no doubt have been told multiple tales of success by local anglers. Once you decide which beach is right for surf fishing, there is little doubt that you will find other anglers there. This is probably a good indication that it is a good surf fishing area. Another thing that you should check your local tackle shop is which lures are being used by surf fishers because every body of water is slightly different. Keep in mind, the more time you fish, the more knowledge you will gain, and before long, there is little doubt that you will find the right sir fishing lures, and your bait collection will be more than sufficient.
There is simply no reason to spend hundreds of dollars to prepare yourself for fishing. This includes surf fishing. Even if you are just getting started, the basic equipment should be relatively inexpensive and as time goes along, and you gain more experience, and you can build up your supply of bait and tackle. Before you know it, you will have learned more about this great sport, not just from your local tackle shop, but from other beach anglers.
When you are preparing to undergo a saltwater fishing experience, it is important that you have the proper fishing gear. Some of the most popular gear include Shimano Saltwater Spinning Reels, Penn Fishing Reel and Daiwa Fishing Reels.
