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If you don't have access to a boat but you still want to catch a big one, you should try surf fishing. It's easy and much less expensive then buying or renting your own boat. So get in your favorite four-wheel drive vehicle and head out to the beach with your poles, tackle and gear and learn how to get started with surf fishing.

Surf fishing can be done pretty much on any shore line anywhere in the world. If there's water, there's fish. You'll want to look for beaches that will allow you to fish on them. And once you're out there you need to figure out which spots are the best for casting. One good indication is seabirds following and diving for fish in the water. This is a good sign that other fish will be in the area feeding off of the same bait fish the seabirds are eating.

As far as equipment goes, you'll need some special tackle to get the job done. You'll need a fishing rod from ten to 12 feet long. And you'll need to be able to cast your bait and at least six ounces of lead weight out into the ocean up to 100 yards away in order to clear the breaking surf. Weights and sinkers attached with a drop rig and bait placed further up on the line works well. A typical spinning reel with a strong line should be sufficient. But like all forms of fishing, you'll need to try different systems and set-ups to find one that suits you best.

The type of bait to use varies quite a bit. Different locations will require different types of bait. Sometimes you'll want to use live bait like eel, crab, or bait fish that is native to your location. In some places you can use basic worms or even artificial lures to catch the fish. The type of fish you're trying to land will dictate how big your bait should be as well. You may have to experiment with different types of bait until you find one that works. The weather, tide, and time of day will also lead to different types of baits to use.

Once you've got the gear and bait just right, you'll want to find a quality spot. Any beach or shoreline will do. You could be fishing knee deep in the surf or off some rocks near the shore. Basically you want to fish wherever fish can be found feeding. Most bait fish will follow the shore line, and bigger fish will surely follow at one point or another to feed on them.

Many people find surf fishing a lot of fun. You'll be able to spend more time fishing and less time traveling and preparing. Surf fishing is also much less expensive than fishing on a boat and a lot safer in many ways too. And the best part is, you won't get sea sick.

Learn more about this author, Tom Stewart.
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