Surf fishing is unlike any other form of angling as it offers the opportunity to catch a huge variety of fish from the beach or shoreline of any coastal area. Fishing in the surf is not as easy as it might appear and there are some very specific techniques and methods used by the most skilled anglers to land fish in higher numbers and bigger sizes.
While it may appear to be one of the most simple forms of angling, surf fishing actually tests the skill level of even the most experienced fishing enthusiast. Surf fishing is relatively similar all over the world and many of the same basic principles are used on both major United States coastlines, as well as any tropical areas and other shorelines.
Surf fishing requires anglers to cast their bait out as far as possible. Ideally, casts are past the crashing waves when fishing on a beach. Doing so will usually put the bait in a better position closer to the strike zone. This will present anglers with the possibility to catch all kinds of small or large game fish species.
Becoming skilled and productive when it comes to surf fishing requires a considerable amount of research and practice. Having the right tools at your disposal will greatly enhance your efforts along the way. There are many different surf fishing rods and this article provides a detailed list of high quality and average quality surf fishing rods.
Here Are the Best Surf Fishing Rods
1. Okuma Longitude Surf Fishing Rods
| Estimated Price | $54-$77 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium, and Heavy |
| Action | Moderate Fast, Fast |
This Okuma Longitude is a quality surf fishing rod found at a reasonable price point. These rods come in two-pieces which makes them manageable to travel with and provides a solid rod when connected.
The short 8-foot and 9-foot rod lengths are good for casting plugs, jigs, and surf rigs from ½ ounce to 6 ounces. These rod lengths are good for short and mid-range casting where a quick hookset is desired. Longer 10-foot to 12-foot rods can cast weights between 3-8 ounces far distances. On shallow beaches with long breaks, it is important to have long rods that can cast far out into deeper, calmer water.
A nice feature of the rod is the cork grips that work great in wet sandy fishing conditions. The rubber butt cap is comfortable when reeling in with the rod pressed into the body. It is made with a graphite blank, strong stainless-steel guides with ceramic inserts, and a quality reel seat that can hold large spinning reels. This is a great rod for catching a wide range of fish including, croakers, pompano, bluefish, striped bass, flounder, skates, redfish, black drum, tarpon, snook, and small sharks.
2. Penn Squadron III Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $60 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 9, 10, 11, and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium Heavy, Heavy |
| Action | Moderate Fast |
The Penn Squadron III surf fishing rod makes a strong case for being the best overall surf fishing rod. It has an affordable price and all-around great features. This rod is versatile and can be used to catch a wide variety of different game fish species using a variety of different rigs and lures. The graphite composite blank rod construction is lightweight and also gives anglers a moderate fast action. This allows for good hook sets and the ability to quickly feel bites.
Penn’s latest Squadron surf fishing rod model is built to be nearly indestructible. It features one-piece stainless steel Dura-Guides that are made to withstand the toughest of fights against anything you happen to hook on the shoreline. As surf fishing anglers know, fighting a 100-pound shark is not at all uncommon and having a rod that’s capable of withstanding such an intense amount of force is crucial.
The handle’s comfortable shrink tube and EVA grips help to provide a reinforced feel that makes sure your rod won’t easily slip out of your grasp. Even when being pulled by some of the heaviest fish you can catch in the surf. As with most other Penn products, this rod has a stately appearance that is as attractive as it is functional.
3. Penn Carnage III Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $230-$240 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 10, and 11 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Moderately Fast |
The Penn Carnage III surf fishing rod is a new high end rod for designed for casting weights up to 6 ounces. If you are looking for a top quality rod that will last for many seasons this is a great option.
This rod is made with Fuji reel skeleton and Fuji reel seats that are known for their extreme levels of toughness and durability. That is absolutely essential if you plan on doing a significant amount of surf fishing. These components might not seem as important as other areas of the rod, but you should expect to be putting a great deal of strain on the reel and reel seating of your rod. When surf fishing you will be fighting against large fish, the surf weights, and the pull of the surf itself.
The Penn Carnage III is made with Fuji K guides and Fuji reel seats. This helps to ensure that inserts popping out are not something you’ll have to worry about. This rod also comes with Penn’s 5-year limited warranty that will cover any manufacturing issues that might arise.
4. St. Croix Avid Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $350-$420 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 10, 11, and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy, Heavy |
| Action | Fast, Moderate-Fast |
The St. Corix Avid is the best surf fishing rod on the market. Its only downside is the price but it comes with a limited 15-year warranty so you can expect it to last longer than less quality rods. The two-piece rods are offered in 10 foot, 11 foot, and 12-foot lengths.
The shorter 10 feet rod has medium power and is designed to cast lures that weigh between 1 ounce to 4 ounces. Next, the 11-foot rod has medium-heavy power and is built to cast lures that weigh between 3 ounces to 8 ounces. Finally, the 12-foot rod can cast the furthest with heavy power and lures that weight from 6 ounces to 16 ounces.
It is important to get a rod with the power to match the desired lure weights. Light lures will not cast as far if the rod power is too high. Heavy lures will also not cast as far if the power is to light and could break the rod during the cast or the retrieve. The action is less important but faster actions will be more rigid and more sensitive.
5. St Croix Mojo Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $200-$250 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | One and Two-pieces |
| Length | 7, 8, 9, 10, 10.5, 11, and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium Light, Medium, Medium-Heavy, Heavy |
| Action | Moderately Fast, Moderate |
St. Croix’s Mojo surf fishing rod is easily one of the top choices for serious anglers looking to get their hands on a high-end surf rod. St. Croix builds these rods as hardcore surf fishing tools that are capable of withstanding the toughest fights. They are crafted with premium-quality SCII graphite material blanks. This rod is made with weight-saving guides that help anglers to hold on through the toughest fights. These also provide an exceptionally smooth experience. This rod lineup also, like the brand’s other premium models, is made with a Fuji DPS reel seat which helps prevent slipping or loosening of the reel itself.
The St. Croix Mojo surf fishing rod offers an incredibly comfortable and tough handle that is designed for optimal levels of durability, feel, sensitivity, and other aspects that most seasoned anglers look for in a high-quality rod. This X-Wrap handle and the fact that St. Croix decided to include two coats of Flex-Coat finish to provide an added level of robust toughness that other rods simply can’t match.
It’s no secret that these rods are among the best lineups produced by any brand and the St. Croix Mojo surf fishing rods are also backed by the company’s 5-year warranty.
6. St. Croix Triumph Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $135-$180 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | One or Two-Piece |
| Length | 7, 8, 9, 10, 10.5 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Moderately Fast |
The St. Croix Triumph surf fishing rod is known as one of the better choices among surf fishing rods. It is crafted from a higher quality SCII graphite blank material. This high-performance material is stronger and also helps anglers have a greater level of sensitivity when compared with other surf rod makes and models. The custom cork taped handle gives this rod model an excellent level of looks and performance. It allows anglers to keep their hands dry in the salty water and prevent slipping when it counts the most.
The Triumph rod lineup models are made with hardened aluminum oxide guides that help feed line off in a smooth manner to prevent breaking and abrasions. Anglers will also appreciate the Fuji DPS reel seats that come with each St. Croix Triumph Surf fishing rod model. These provide an added level of strength that keeps the reel in place while even the largest fish species pull against it.
This rod is made to the same high standards as other St. Croix models when it comes to the overall appearance. The Triumph surf rods feature two coats of Flex-Coat and have an overall elegant design that is a testament to this rod’s ability to function at a higher level than most of its competitors’ designs. As with other premium models made by the St. Croix brand, this rod lineup is backed with a 5-year warranty.
7. Ugly Stik Bigwater Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $63-$150 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 8, 10, and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
The Ugly Stik Bigwater surf spinning rod is crafted with the same impressive level of uncanny toughness that the Ugly Stik has garnered a reputation for over the years. This is thanks to the company’s super durable Ugly Tech blank construction. The rod blank is made with a combination of graphite and fiberglass that combines to form a level of extreme toughness that other brands simply can’t replicate.
The rod is praised for its ability to provide anglers with good sensibility, allowing them to feel even the most subtle bites in the surf. The Ugly Tuff guides help create a smooth feel and performance to keep your line going out strong and without any extra difficulty. Ugly Stik has also stayed true to what their customers want and created this rod with a comfortable EVA handle that provides good grip and an overall solid feel.
The Ugly Stik Bigwater surf fishing rod is of the best values of any other rod on our list. It has one-piece guides without ceramic inserts so it is recommended to use with monofilament fishing line. A braided line can work but can also make the guide rough over time which can fray and break the line.
8. Fiblink 2-Piece Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $52-$75 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 10 and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium Heavy, Heavy |
| Action | Moderate Fast |
Fiblink is a relatively new company that is establishing a reputation for good products and reasonable prices. The Fiblink 2-piece surf fishing rod is a great choice for anglers looking for a solid option that won’t cost too much. This rod is simply made with a number of quality components that all combine for a great fishing experience that compares nicely to other brands with products being offered above $100.
The rod is crafted from a graphite blank material that’s lightweight and capable of bending against high levels of pressure that are common when it comes to surf fishing. The stainless steel and ceramic guides increase the smoothness of each cast while ensuring that your line won’t get caught up in the guides. These guides also help give the angler the ability to cast more accurately. It also increases the ability to feel the slightest vibration from the tip to the seat of the rod.
The Fiblink rod’s handle is another excellent feature as it is made with a non-slip rubber shrink tubing, as well as a tapered rear grip. The reel seat is crafted with a stainless steel hood to create a tough product that will withstand just about any fish you happen to hook into in the surf. The rod handle is made with high grip material that won’t slip out of your hands, even when wet.
9. Fiblink 3-Piece Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $55-$76 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | 3-Piece |
| Length | 9, 11, 13, and 15 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Heavy |
| Action | Moderate-Fast |
Portability is a great asset when it comes to surf fishing rods as most models are incredibly long. This makes them very hard to transport. In the case of the Fiblink 3-Piece surf fishing rod, anglers are able to break their rod down, pack it into a well-made case, and take it just about anywhere they want to go. This rod is made with super-sensitive carbon fiber that is lightweight and tough.
With stainless steel guides and ceramic guide components, users will likely appreciate the extra-smooth casting experience this rod offers. Many times, when surf fishing, anglers miss fish because they can’t feel the bites or nibble on the other end. The Fiblink 3-Piece rod offers an incredibly sensitive feel which translates to a better fishing experience as you will be able to tell the difference between natural movement and a fish’s first bites.
The non-slip handle is made with shrink tube material that helps to eliminate any slipping that might occur. The reel seat is not quite as tough as some other brands and might be a vulnerable spot of this model when compared with other premium brands of surf fishing rods.
10. Fiblink 4-Piece Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $63-$84 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | 4-Piece |
| Length | 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Moderately Fast, Fast |
Like other two-piece and three-piece models, the Fiblink 4-Piece surf fishing rod is an ideal choice for anglers who are concerned with a high level of portability when it comes to their surf fishing rod. The super-strong carbon construction combines with the other components on this rod to create a super sensitive and durable fishing experience.
This 4-piece design makes it easy to carry the rod almost anywhere you want to go, whether you’re backpacking or getting on a plane. The 30T carbon fiber blank construction is incredibly durable and when coupled with the fact that Fiblink has added other high-quality components. This rod provides anglers with a really smooth, sensitive fishing experience that’s tough to beat.
The fact that this rod is available for around $50 makes it one of the best values of any model on the market.
11. BerryPro Surf Spinning Rod
| Estimated Price | $52-$76 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 9, 10, 10.5, 11, 12, and 13.3 Foot |
| Power | Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
The BerryPro surf spinning rod is another rod model on our list that’s a great deal. Constructed with 36-ton X-carbon technology blanks, this rod has plenty of durability to withstand even the toughest fights against sharks, and other giants lurking around the surf that you happen to catch. The stainless steel and ceramic guides are made to give this rod a smooth and precise casting experience as it will minimize friction in both castings and reeling in your catch.
This rod is known for its ability to allow for extremely long casts, which is essential for surf fishing. Getting your bait rig out there as far as possible helps to avoid being tumbled around in the breaking waves, currents, and riptides. The blank’s construction is also excellent when it comes to sensitivity that will translate any small nibbles you happen to get, nothing will go unnoticed.
The rods reel seat is also made to be incredibly tough while the handle will also allow for an extra amount of grip as it offers a non-slip shrink tube design. It comes with a one-year limited manufacture warranty.
12. Tica Ueha Surf Casting Rod
| Estimated Price | $73-$160 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | One and Two-Piece |
| Length | 7, 8, 9, 10, 11.5, and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium Heavy, Heavy |
| Action | Moderate-Fast, Fast |
The Tica Ueha surf casting rod comes in lengths from 7-foot to 12-foot. This rod is ideally designed for surf fishing as users are able to cast their baits a considerable distance and the rod itself is able to hold up against tough, heavy fights with big fish.
The rod features strong titanium guides that ensure your rod will be incredibly tough with Fuji ceramic rings that help to create an exceptionally smooth experience. This particular model is highly praised for its superior comfort as it features a quality cork handle that works just as well when anglers have wet or dry hands.
Sometimes surf fishing entails using lighter rods that help anglers target smaller fish species such as croakers, founder skates, bluefish, and pompano. The Tica Ueha rod is specially designed to meet the needs of anglers in targeting both large and small fish.
13. Okuma Cedros Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $150-170 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 9, 10, 10.5, and 11 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Moderately-Fast |
Okuma’s surf fishing model known as the Cedros is an exceptionally useful tool for the avid surf fisherman or fisherwoman. Made from extremely durable 30-ton carbon blank construction, this rod offers a high level of toughness, as well as sensitivity. The zirconium guide inserts help to create an exceptionally smooth casting experience.
This rod is made with the highest-quality components such as stainless steel guides that secure to the rod in two places for increased durability. Anglers will also appreciate the shrink tube rubber handle that will help you get a grip on the rod whether your hands are dry or soaking wet.
This model is widely considered to be one of the highest quality surf fishing rods but the high price is likely to turn some anglers away. With a lifetime warranty, it’s clear that anyone willing to invest in a product of this nature will find it to be a worthy investment that will last a long time.
14. Okuma Tundra Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $50-$60 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 15 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
The Okuma Tundra is an excellent option for anglers seeking an average quality rod that is affordable. This rod offers a glass fiber rod blank construction that offers a high level of durability. The reinforced double-footed guides provide an excellent casting experience that won’t easily hinder the line’s ability to flow smoothly out of the rod.
It has ceramic guide inserts that are also made to the same high-quality standards that Okuma is known for. This rod’s handle is also highly comfortable and will help users maintain their grip on the rod whether their hands are wet or dry. The EVA foam fore and rear grips help to ensure that your rod won’t easily slip out of your grasp when you’re in the middle of an intense fight with any kind of saltwater game fish species.
15. Okuma Rockaway Light Surf Spinning Rod
| Estimated Price | $91-$105 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Moderate, Fast |
As one of the more lightweight options, the Okuma Rockaway light surf spinning rod still offers much of the extremely high-quality components and performance that the brand has widely become known for. This model features Okuma’s new UFR tip technology that provides an exceptionally sensitive feel for anglers to be able to recognize those soft, subtle bites in the surf.
Made from 24-ton carbon blanks, this rod is considerably tougher than most other models that are produced by other brands. The lightweight feel and performance are great for going after moderate to smaller sized surf fish species like salmon, mackerel and other species.
The handle features a tapered shrink tube grip that offers the best in non-slip technology. The rounded EVA butt cap also helps to provide an added level of balance that assists in users being able to cast their lure with this rod with outstanding distance.
16. Tsunami Airwave Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $100-$160 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod. |
| Construction | Two-Piece. |
| Length | 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 Foot. |
| Power | Medium, Medium-Heavy, Heavy. |
| Action | Fast. |
Tsunami is at the top of the game when it comes to producing quality surf fishing tackle equipment. Their Tsunami Airwave is a two-piece surf rod and comes in lengths from 7-foot to 12-foot. The high fiber density graphite blanks these rods are made to produce an exceptionally lightweight product that still has superb durability when compared to other models. This exceptional blank material allows users to get longer casts thanks to the rod’s ability to launch lures out with a spring-loaded style of action.
This Tsunami model is made to be extremely sensitive as it utilizes the highest quality components. This model is made with a Fuji graphite reel seat that helps to add to the overall toughness of this rod. The Pac Bay aluminum oxide guides are crafted in a way that makes them ideal for use with braided lines, which means this rod is ready to handle even the heaviest catches.
17. Offshore Angler Surf Fishing rod
| Estimated Price | $100-$120 |
| Type | Surf Spinning Rod |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 9 and 11 Foot |
| Power | Medium, Medium Heavy |
| Action | Moderate Fast, Fast |
Surf fishing rods must be designed to handle the toughest fights and the biggest heavyweight fish in the seas. The Offshore Angler surf spinning rod is specially designed to accomplish just what surf anglers need as it is crafted with tough RT2 graphite blank material and offers high-quality parts and performance.
The Fuji aluminum oxide guides provide a smooth casting ability and the tough graphite reel seat helps to ensure that your rod won’t slip or break when you need to rely on it the most. The EVA handle is made with X-Wrap rubber that helps to provide a reinforced feel to this model that equals comfort and reliability.
18. Penn Battle III Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
| Estimated Price | $100-$200 |
| Type | Spinning Rod and Reel |
| Construction | One, Two, and Three-Piece |
| Length | 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10 Foot |
| Power | Light to Heavy |
| Action | Moderate Fast, Fast |
The Penn Battle III rod and reel is a very popular fishing combo for serious surf anglers who want quality equipment to bring their catches into the shore. This particular combo is designed for smoothness and toughness as it features a reel with CNC Gear technology and the rod is made with tough graphite composite blank material.
The variety of lengths and combinations create the ability for anglers to choose the model that’s perfect for their needs. The stainless steel Dura-Guides ensure that your inserts won’t easily pop out when facing an extreme amount of pressure. With everything this combo offers factored together, this option offers incredible overall value to any surf angler.
19. Penn Wrath Surf Fishing Combo
| Estimated Price | $68-$155 |
| Type | Spinning Rod and Reel Combo |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 6.5, 7, 8, 9, and 10 Foot |
| Power | Medium Light to Heavy |
| Action | Moderate Fast, Fast |
The Penn Wrath surf fishing combo is an excellent choice for novice surf anglers or anyone looking for a budget-friendly rod and reel that will still work great to catch fish. This is a highly versatile combo that allows users to fish from any point on the shoreline, as well as other areas of the water’s edge and also from boats.
The graphite composite rod is crafted to the high standards that Penn products are known for. With stainless steel guides and titanium oxide inserts, anglers can count on this rod’s ability to smoothly cast their rigs out into the surf. Even though it is a low-cost option it can still handle fights with most game fish species you might encounter on the beach. There are better surf fishing reels but this is a low-cost option to get started.
20. Daiwa D-Wave Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo
| Estimated Price | $62-$180 |
| Type | Spinning Rod and Reel Combo |
| Construction | Two-Piece |
| Length | 7 and 9 Foot |
| Power | Medium |
| Action | Fast |
Daiwa is widely known for producing some of the best rod and reel combos and their Daiwa D-Wave Combo is an excellent choice for novice anglers and anyone looking to get their feet wet when it comes to surf fishing. This fiberglass blank rod is made to meet the same quality standards that Daiwa has a reputation for and offers plenty of durability for surf fishing scenarios.
The aluminum oxide guides are not quite as tough as other brands, but will be enough to withstand most surf fishing needs. The rod also crafted with an EVA foam handle that helps users maintain a sturdy grip even though their hands might be soaking wet. Its short length makes it good for casting smaller lures and plugs from the shore. This is a good option when fishing from a pier or bridge where casting for distance is not as important.
21. Daiwa Ballistic Telescopic Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $132-$175 |
| Type | Telescopic Spinning Rod |
| Construction | One-Piece |
| Length | 6.93 to 9.84 Foot |
| Power | Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
Using a telescopic rod and reel combo is highly convenient as it allows you to easily transport your setup in a vehicle, or even through airport security. The Daiwa Ballistic telescopic surf fishing rod is a great option for anglers who want the conveniences of having a telescopic rod.
This medium-heavy power rod comes in sizes from around 7 feet to 10 feet in length when fully extended. It can fold up into about 22 inches in order to be transported almost anywhere with relative ease. This rod features an EVA foam handle that’s easy to grip and allows an angler to have full control over their rod. This telescopic rod comes very highly rated and is a great option for anglers of any skill level.
22. Daiwa Megaforce Telescopic Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $67-$98 |
| Type | Telescopic Rod |
| Construction | One Piece |
| Length | 6.89 to 11.81 Foot |
| Power | Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
The Daiwa Megaforce Telescopic rod is another excellent choice of telescopic rod for anglers as it features much of the same great characteristics that Daiwa rods are known for. This telescopic rod folds up into about 22.8 inches and can travel just about anywhere when needed. Being almost 12 feet long and being able to cast lures over 10 ounces makes it very well suited for far casting from the beach.
The rod is rated as medium-heavy and offers a fast action tip, which is generally perfect for surf fishing. It features an HMC carbon fiber blank that is highly sensitive and offers optimal durability for surf fishing. The titanium oxide guides are also extremely durable. Many anglers prefer this telescopic rod as it features the classic cork handle and is a great all-around fishing rod.
23. Shimano Alivio Telescopic Surf Fishing Rod
| Estimated Price | $75 |
| Type | Telescopic Rod |
| Construction | One Piece |
| Length | 13 Foot |
| Power | Medium-Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
Shimano offers an exceptional telescopic rod in its Alivio Telescopic surf rod. This model is made from XT30 blanks and features an exceptionally strong material that’s capable of handling most fish you can catch in the surf. It offers a solid tip, as well as a DPS reel seat. This helps anglers maintain control over their catches and have smooth, effortless casts compared to other models.
Made with Shimano stainless steel Hardlite guides, this rod will have much of the same characteristics that Shimano rods are known for. The Fuji reel seat is as tough as any other on the market, making it a good option for a highly portable fishing rod.
24. Fiblink Saltwater Big Game Rod
| Estimated Price | $54-$72 |
| Type | Conventional Rod |
| Construction | One Piece, Two-Piece |
| Length | 5 Foot 1 inch, 6 Foot, and 7.5 Foot |
| Power | Heavy |
| Action | Fast |
Fiblink has heeded the demands of many of its customers and produced a rod that’s perfectly suited for going after monster fish when it comes to surf angling. The Fiblink saltwater rod is relatively short for a surf fishing setup. However, that’s an advantage when you plan on hooking into giant sharks and other large species.
This rod is a good option for anglers who set baits in the surf using kayaks. The baits can also be set out by using the current or wind if the conditions are right. Long rods are two flexible for catching large fish over 100 pounds in most cases. Have a conventional rod with a conventional reel is much better suited for big game fishing. It is important to also wear a fighting belt when using this type of rod.
The one-piece tubular E-glass graphite composition is among the strongest rods on our list of the best surf fishing rods and will hold up quite well against large catches. It has a machined aluminum alloy reel seat is also crafted to handle a considerable amount of pressure. The rod also features a high-density EVA foam handle that will help anglers in maintaining control over a large fish when they’re in the thick of the fight.
Surf Fishing Rod Holders
Sand Flea Surf Fishing Rod Holder
Having a quality surf fishing rod holder is an absolutely essential item if you want to increase your chances of catching fish. The Sand Flea surf fishing rod holders offer everything you need to keep your rod safe and secure while you wait for a fish to bite.
The plastic-coated tip keeps your rod protected from damage or movement while you’re waiting for the fish to take the bait. The tube is also made from an impact and UV ray resistant material that ensures it will hold up well over time. These come in 2 foot, 3 foot, and foot lengths. A longer rod holder helps keep the reel dry when placed in the surf. However, the short rod holders are easier to transport and have less torque applied when a fish is pulling on the line.
Surf Fishing Rod Holder Sand Spike
The Sand Spike surf fishing rod holder is an excellent option for series surf anglers who need to rely on the best possible products. This will allow anglers to focus on fishing instead of worrying about faulty equipment. This rod holder is made from high-quality anodized aluminum that will ensure that your rod holder doesn’t break or bend with an exceptionally heavy fish.
The nylon rod holder cap helps to keep sand and anything else from getting inside the rod holder and causing damage to your rod handle. This rod holder is perfect for anglers who want a solid rod holer that is easy to set into the sand and hard ground.
Cart for Beach Fishing
Seasoned anglers and those who are especially dedicated to surf fishing know the convenience and importance of having a fishing cart like the Sea Striker Beach Runner Deluxe. This cart is a worthy investment for anyone who intends to spend a considerable amount of time surf fishing from the shoreline or pier.
This cart offers seven-rod holders and a large open section that’s perfect for holding coolers, crates, tackle boxes, and any other items that a surf angler might need. The plastic wheels are perfect as they are not able to be flattened or damaged as easily as rubber tires. This is a dependable fishing cart that is a must-have item for anyone who plans to become a seasoned pro when it comes to surf fishing.
Information About Surf Fishing Rods
How to Cast a Surf Fishing Rod
Casting a surf rod is all about precision and distance. While holding your line with your finger and flipping the bail over as you typically would using a spinning reel, you’ll want to line your sinker up with the bottom eye on your rod. This will ensure that you get the optimal fulcrum.
For a right-handed cast, you’ll place your left hand on the butt end of the rod and the right hand will be placed on the reel seat portion of the rod. Make sure your sinker is sitting on the sand with no slack in your line just as you begin your cast.
You’ll then want to thrust the rod over and downward as your whole body moves forward, with your front foot stepping forward in order to get as much propulsion as possible. You’ll end your cast with the rod tip pointed directly at the spot you intend for your rig to make an impact with the water surface.
Lure Weights for Surf Fishing Rods
Weights are an essential part of a surf fishing rig. There are a variety of different style weights that offer their own unique advantages while fishing.
Pyramid: the most common sinker style is the pyramid style which is designed to dig into the sand and keep your bait in place.
Wedge: the wedge sinker is ideal for larger baits when surf fishing. The concave mouth at the top helps to prevent this sinker from being pulled free of the sand.
Coin: the coin sinker is especially popular for anglers fishing for species like kingfish. The coin, when dragged across the sandy bottom, mimics the movement and effect of a crab scuttling across the bottom.
Sputnik: This style of the sinker is especially unique as it uses a number of long wires to extend and dig into the bottom.
Hatteras: the Hatteras style of the sinker is also designed to keep your bait in the same position as it should lodge down into the sandy bottom. It should hold in place and allow the sinker to dig into muddy bottoms, as well as sandy seafloors.
Construction Materials
Surf fishing rods are mostly made from materials like graphite, fiberglass, or a combination of both. Most surf rods are made of graphite as surf rods are required to be longer and thicker than other styles of rods, and a fiberglass surf rod would simply be too heavy to wield and cast.
Fiberglass rods are typically considered slow to medium action as they will bend the length of the rod. Graphite rods can be made with a wider variety of different degrees of stiffness, especially in longer surf fishing rods that are usually as long as 12 foot or more. The various degrees of stiffness are referred to as a rod’s modulus rating.
Graphite is known to be more sensitive when compared to fiberglass or other material, which helps anglers feel a fish’s bite in many cases.
Power and Actions Rating of Surf Fishing rods
Different power rods will cast further depending on the lure weight. Casting far is a very important factor in surf fishing rod design as it is crucial that an angler get their bait out past the breaking waves and into calmer waters along the beach.
Most surf fishing rods will offer a power rating of medium or heavy as the rigs and baits used are much larger and heavier than those involved in other styles of fishing. In order to cast these big, heavy baits and sinkers out as far as they should go, a rod has to be stiff enough to have a bit of a spring-like ability.
Action, as it relates to surf fishing, is very similar to the concept of power. With heavier lures and baits, anglers need a stiff rod that won’t easily bend in order to get the most out of a highly powerful cast.
Simply put, if you plan to use a very heavy rig and bait, you’ll want a rod with heavy power and moderately fast action as it will allow you to get the most out of your effort in casting.
Frequently Asked Questions About Surf Fishing Rods
What is a surf fishing rod?
Surf fishing, as noted above, involves casting your bait rig out as far as possible. This means you’ll need to have an especially long rod to get the most force out of your casting form. Many surf fishing rods will range in length from 7 foot out to as long as 18 foot in some cases.
These rods will also need to be quite heavy as you’ll usually be throwing rigs and lures that are very heavy compared to freshwater fishing rods. If you’re looking to get your first surf fishing rod, start with a medium-heavy power rod option as this will allow you to utilize the rod and get the most out of a variety of different styles of baits and lures.
What is the best surf fishing rod length?
Surf fishing rods can vary in length from about 7 feet out to 18 feet in most cases. Anglers can choose from any number of lengths between those numbers, but each one usually has a very specific purpose that surf fishing anglers are looking to accomplish.
If you’re looking to get the right length for your surf fishing rod, you’ll want to take into account your own height, as this will also play a role in how long you can cast your rig using a certain rod length. If you’re a bit shorter than most people, go for a shorter rod and vice versa for tall anglers.
People who are taller than the average angler are generally able to have an advantage when it comes to surf fishing as they’ll be able to easily cast their bait out to a longer distance. The goal in casting your lure out into the surf is to get it past the breaking waves and into the calmer water in order to ensure that your rig won’t be swept back into the shore, and that passing fish will have a better chance to see it and strike at it.
How far can a surf fishing rod cast?
The distance a surf fishing rod can cast all depends on the length of your rod and the amount of force you’re able to put into each casting motion. If you’re taller than the average person and in good physical condition, you should have a considerable advantage when casting a surf rod as you’ll be able to put more force and leverage into your casting form.
If you’re using a rod that’s 12 feet in length, or longer, you should be able to cast anywhere from 50 to 70 yards in most cases. Some anglers, using a variety of different bait and weight combinations along with longer, heavier rods can cast out a bit farther than this, but the goal is to be just outside of the breaking waves.
What type of fish do you catch with surf fishing rods?
One of the greatest things about surf fishing is the huge variety of fish you’re usually able to catch. Most surf fishing anglers can catch anything from striped bass, bluefish, sharks, and a variety of different drum species.
Snook and tarpon are fun species for surf anglers as these fish grow to be very large in size and put up a considerable fight. Mackerel are super fast-swimming fish and are exciting to catch from the shore or from a boat.
Speckled sea trout is usually a very common species of game fish you can expect to catch with a surf fishing rod. However, these fish typically do not grow to a very large size. There is any number of other species such as croakers, skates, bluefish, dogfish, and others that are also common.
One of the most common types of fish surf anglers enjoy catching are sharks. As you can imagine, sharks can grow up to a few hundred pounds and can give anglers an incredibly-difficult fight that can sometimes last for a few hours.
What is the best reel to use with a surf fishing rod?
Surf fishing reels, like surf rods, are to be expected to be able to withstand a high degree of pressure as anglers might catch any number of large and fast-swimming fish species from the shoreline. A surf fishing reel must also be saltwater compatible as a freshwater reel that is exposed to saltwater will be considerably damaged over time due to corrosion.
The most important part of the surf fishing reel is the spool design. Reels that are specifically designed for surf fishing will have tall spools. This allows for the line to come off the reel without getting hung up and has a lower drag for further casting. Some reels are bailless to ensure the bail does not close during the cast. If the bail closes shortly after the cast a high instantaneous force will be generated when the line gets tight. This high force can snap even the strongest lines.
Regarding a reel’s size, it’s best to choose one that’s sized from a 5000 to 8000 series. These reels have large spools that hold enough line for far casting and extra line if the fish runs further out. Make sure that your reel is corrosion-resistant, as well as having a high gear ratio in order to get the most out of your reeling efforts.
Is mono or braid better for surf fishing?
Surf fishing is all about toughness and covering long distances with your tackle and equipment. In order to accomplish this, sometimes one or the other is a better option.
Braided line is better for fishing in choppy conditions when the winds are howling and the water is more likely to have a harder pull on your rigs. A braided line won’t stretch against the current and waves, and it is also more sensitive, which should allow anglers to have a better ability to feel the fish biting their lures or bait.
A monofilament line is very good as it has better abrasion-resistant qualities and will withstand contact with underwater objects such as rocks, logs, and other items that might otherwise cause your line to break or be damaged. If you plan to fish for large species such as sharks, having the stretching ability of mono can also be a significant advantage as your catch won’t easily pull free or break the line as it is pulling against your rod.
What color line is best for surf fishing?
The color of your fishing line typically doesn’t matter, but sometimes it can be the difference-maker in catching or missing a sharp-eyed fish. Many anglers attest that the color of your line doesn’t matter when it comes to surf fishing while others say that it can make all the difference.
Usually, it’s best to use a line that is somewhat similar to the watercolor you’re fishing in. Many anglers attest to green being a great option for fishing in gulf regions as the emerald-colored water helps to blend the line’s color and further camouflage it from wary fish. If the water happens to be clear using a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader is a good idea.
The color of the line you use can often matter more depending on the specific type of game fish species you plan to catch as some fish have better eyesight than others. It’s important to do plenty of research in order to determine whether or not you’ll need to spool your reel with a certain color line in order to give yourself an advantage on the water.
What size hooks for surf fishing?
The proper hook size for surf fishing will often depend on the particular game fish species you intend to catch, as well as the type of bait you plan to use. Most anglers consider a #2 to 3/0 size hook a good size for surf fishing. This will allow you to catch almost any type of fish you may encounter swimming at or near the shoreline.
Make sure your bait will be held tightly on your hook and will not slide off as you cast. It’s also very important to make sure you’re using the right bait before worrying about your hook size.
It’s very important to do your research on the specific types of fish that are in season, as well as the ones you are specifically targeting while surf fishing in order to make the most out of your efforts. Once you’ve narrowed down the exact type of fish you want to target, you will then be able to determine the best size hook to be used, as well as the best bait to rig.
What’s the best bait for beach fishing?
Shrimp
Many anglers opt for using shrimp while surf fishing as they are a type of bait that appeals to many different fish species. Nearly anything in the ocean will bite a shrimp if given the opportunity and sometimes they work better when fished with a slow retrieve in order to mimic a fleeing shrimp. The main problem with shrimp is that they don’t often stay on the hook as well as other baits and can easily be pulled off the hook by smaller fish that you may not be targeting.
Cut Bait
You really can never go wrong when using cut-bait to catch anything while surf fishing. Cut bait is a great choice for trying to catch larger species like cobia, shark, and striped bass. A good scent trail from large baits can help attract fish to the bait.
Squid
Using squid is a great option for beginning anglers as this type of bait will generally stay on the hook better than anything else, and you’ll have a good chance to catch a variety of different kinds of fish species. Squid can be a messy option for bait but are usually a solid pick any time of the year.
Sand fleas
Without a doubt, one of the best baits for surf fishing are sand fleas. These little critters are what fish are mostly after when they come near the shoreline to feed on anything they can find. Sand fleas are very nutritious and are also appealing to any type of fish you happen to find swimming near the coast. They are well-known for being tough to find in some cases as they can burrow down into the sand rather quickly. Make no mistake, sand fleas are a top choice for the experienced surf fishing enthusiast.
How many lines do you need for surf fishing?
When surf fishing, you can expect to use quite a bit of line, especially if you hook a large fish that pulls off a considerable amount of line from your reel and breaks it off. Most experts recommend users having anywhere from 250 to 300 yards of the line for surf fishing.
What pound test line is best for surf fishing?
Anglers can expect to catch a wide variety of fish while surf fishing on any given day. Generally, most experts recommend using somewhere from 20-pound to 50-pound test line in order to account for any larger fish species you happen to hook. This will allow you to cast far and catch be small and large fish. Experienced anglers will be able to land large fish even on a 20-pound test line. When specifically target large sharks 80-100 pound test line should be used on a conventional reel.
Captain Cody has worked on charter fishing boats in the Florida Keys, Virgin Islands, and Alaska. Growing up in Pennsylvania Cody has also done extensive freshwater fishing including bass fishing tournaments. Cody strives to provide detailed information about the best fishing gear and tactics to help both novice and experienced anglers have a more productive and enjoyable time on the water. Cody also has a background in aerospace engineering and neuroscience but really only takes pride in being good at one thing and that is fishing!