by Laura Sullivanlyndall

Created on: June 20, 2009   Last Updated: July 18, 2009

How to get started with surf fishing

Surf fishing can yield as big if not larger variety of fish than fishing from a boat. Surf fishing is fishing from the shore, in the water, or from the Jetties. When surf fishing you have the advantage of saving money on fuel, motor oil, boat repairs or rental. In addition, you don't have to worry about getting stranded in a boat if it breaks down, or in an offshore thunderstorm. One of the biggest advantages of surf fishing is your choice of bait. First, you have to get started though.

Research

Before you start buying expensive poles, tackle, and bait you need to do your homework. Check out the general area of where you want to get started. Stop by some local bait and tackle shops and inquire on what species of fish are being caught in the area and what kind of bait they are hitting on. In addition, you can ask your local bait and tackle shops for advise to what kind of tackle to use in the area and for the local fishing. Not only should you check with the bait and tackle shops , but go check out the area and see what people are catching, what bait they are using and ask for some helpful tips. If you can find a mentor who's already experienced in the area, you will learn more a lot quicker as far as do's and don'ts.

Choose your location

Before you can gather the proper supplies and equipment, you need to know where you will be fishing. Some species of fish will search for food near pilings, bridges, rocks, under docks, piers, and near buoy's. Other species of fish will hunt for food at the mouth of the river or inlet or any surf break such as where there is a shelf, sand bar, cut, trough, or any other kind of drop off, which would create a disturbance in the water during the change of tide or rough seas. It is best to scout out these locations during low tide.

Picking the right pole

IF you are fishing near a bridge, pier or any other structure, you will need a shorter pole. This will give you room when maneuvering your rod when casting. However, you will need a longer rod when fishing from shore out past the surf. The longer the rod, the more casting distance you will have. Don't go buy the most expensive right off the bat, chances are you'll want something different after you get some experience.

Choosing your bait

If order to pick the right choice of bait, you need to know what species you are targeting, unless your fishing for fun and any species is game. If you are fishing around bridges, docks, and pilings, you can catch

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