There are many anglers that prefer not to go out on a boat when fishing and this method offers a wonderful alternative because surf fishing can be just as fun and rewarding as boat fishing.
Some of the fish that you can expect to catch when surf fishing includes bluefish, mackerel, trout, bass and flounder.
Surf fishing can be enjoyed by anglers of all ages ranging from the very young to the elderly. It is also done by the novice fishermen and experienced ones alike.
Surf fishing can be a fun and exciting way to spend your free time. Below you can find some great surf fishing strategies that will help you get consistent catches each time you go fishing along the oceans shoreline.
When and How to Go Surf Fishing
The best time to go surf fishing is in the spring and fall. During this time you will have the best opportunities to reel in better quality fish in larger quantities.
There are also less people on the beaches during this time of year so you can move around more freely and enjoy a little more privacy. When there are lots of people on the beaches and playing in the water it scares the fish away.
Fish close to the shore at all times. After all, it is surf fishing and if you cast your line too far out you will be missing the bulk of where the fish are located.
You should actually cast your line parallel with the sand for the best results. Fishing during the half tides will be much easier than during high tides and you will get more bites during this time. Half tides are usually during the early morning or late evening. Fishing along the break of the waves can also be very productive.
Find the areas where reefs, rocks, holes and similar hiding places are located and concentrate on these areas. This is where the most fish will be. Inlets and channels are also great locations. However, it is best to fish these areas when the tide is going out. The tide will carry your bait out to sea and the fish laying in wait for food will take it much faster.
Techniques and Baits
One clue as to where the fish are located is where all the birds tend to gather. Therefore, you should look for birds and bait fish and you will most likely find the locating of a school of fish.
The birds feed off of the same baitfish that the fish feed off of. When you see swirls on the top of the water this is a sign of fish feeding and a good place to throw in your line. Sometimes the fish will even jump completely out of the water so keep your eyes open.
Successful surf fishing requires the right combination of skill, weather conditions and surf fishing equipment. Fishermen of all ages can enjoy learning to surf fish, and many locations offer lessons on surf fishing that cover topics such as surf fishing equipment, the fish to be caught, the water conditions and the skill's basics.
One of the most important things to be covered during surf fishing lessons is the type of equipment and how it will work best for the ultimate fishing experience. Actually, there are very few optimal pieces of surf fishing equipment, since everybody has a favorite style and prefers equipment to enhance it.
In the surf, fishing rods work best if they are between 10 and 15 feet long, because the personal choice of rod length depends on what one is most comfortable with.
Different kinds of tackle such as leaders, weights, hooks and swivels are good to carry for a variety of feeders. Some surf fishermen employ spider leaders, triple drop leaders or the pyramid leader. Certainly, which tackle to use is a personal preference based on the type of fish you hope to catch.
If you are surf fishing in a particular area, many times it is best to catch your bait from that area. For that reason, it is recommended to carry along a couple of smaller rods or nets among your surf fishing equipment in order to reel in the best bait. This is what the fish in the area are used to and what they generally will respond best to.
Moreover, landing nets are important to have when surf fishing. It is also best to have someone else along to help you bring the fish in with the help of a net. The specific net to use will depend on the type of fish that are in the area. Certainly, if your intended prey is a big fish, you will need to have a heavy-duty net handy.
Additionally, the type of water that you are fishing in determines the surf fishing equipment you should use, as good surf fishing is available in either fresh or salt water. Surf fishermen are known to enjoy fishing in rivers, lakes and other small bodies of water.
Surf fishing can also be great fun in ocean water, and many people try to surf fish for trophies in salt water. Surf fishing is enjoyable for any age group in the family, since there are species of different sizes to be caught. It always great fun to catch a fish, but there is also much beauty to see while you are wading through the water.
Craig Petersen has sinced written about articles on various topics from Aquarium Fish, Pets and Fishing. You can read more information about planning a at our site. While you're there download your copy of a free report to help you plan your next trip. Craig Petersen's top article generates over 60500 views. to your Favourites.