Surf Fishing Rigs 101
Most people associate saltwater fishing with boating, but an angler can fish the ocean from the shore as well. Surf fishing produces a wide array of game fish including bluefish, drum, flounder, stripers, and whiting. While rewarding, it’s not always easy, and the forceful churning of the shore waters demands highly specialized surf fishing rigs.
The simplest surf fishing rig uses saltwater surf fishing rods that are much like any other rods except they tend to be longer (10-15 feet) and more rigid. The rigidity helps in the turbulent environment. The angler must rig these rods differently as well because if the tackle doesn’t hold ground on the breaking surf, it will simply float back in with the waves.
In order to support the necessary surf fishing rigs, the rod must be able to handle weights that are large enough for the angler to cast into the surf effectively. Beginners will want to opt for surf fishing rigs that include reinforced guides and either a casting reel or a large spinning reel. Casting reels cast further, but they’re also more difficult to handle and tangle easily. True beginners should use a spinning reel.
Effective rigs for surf fishing require a weight of 3-4 oz. to keep the bait near the bottom. Anglers can use pyramid weights to anchor saltwater surf fishing rigs that are in active surf. However, in calm waters, most will opt for pancake weights since they are easier to handle and they will not roll the line. It is important to use only as much weight as is needed to keep the bait in place.
Surf fishing tackle rigs are only as rugged as the knot that secures them. Therefore, it is vital that an angler not only tie the knot effectively but that he or she chooses the type of knot with purpose. For example, dropper loops are perfect for adding side leaders and weights, a surgeon’s knot is helpful for joining lines, and a Shell or Palomar knot are excellent for use on hooks.
When surf fishing, more than in any other type of fishing, rigs must be easy to change. Tide and other conditions will change, sometimes fast and often, and the angler must adjust the weight accordingly so that the bait will stay near the bottom. In addition, the types of fish biting will change, and thus the bait will change and the entire rigging will require change.
Start with a few common rigs, a rod, and a reel, and have a variety of hooks and weights. As you gain experience and familiarity with an area, you can add equipment as necessary and begin to experiment with the more complex setups. Happy fishing and enjoy the outdoors.
