Archive for June 8, 2014
Surf Fishing is Fun
Fishing on the surf is one of the most relaxing and least expensive activities you can do at the beach. All you need is a rod, reel and several items to enjoy this hobby.
The first thing you want to do is research the regulations. Make sure you know the limits of any species you catch. Also, you may need a license to fish on our beaches. Licenses and rules can be obtained at any local tackle shop.
Next is selecting the spot on the beach. I always check with other local anglers or tackle shops for this information. They can usually point you in the right direction. But basically, any spot on our beach will hold fish.
Like any sport, you will need specific gear. These items will include a good medium seven rod and reel set up, a bottom rig, package of hooks, several different size sinkers and bait. If you don’t have your own rod and reel set up, a complete package can be purchased any tackle supply shop.
The standard rod and reel will already be rigged with line. You will attach the bottom rig to the line. You can either tie the rig directly to the line or tie a snap swivel to the line first and then hook the rig to this connector. A snap swivel allows for a quick change over if you need to replace the bottom rig. Not needed, but attaching the rig either way works great.
Next you want to install the hooks. Number four or six size hooks work fine. I slide the loop end of the hook line over the bottom rig loop and slip the hook through the bottom rig loop. This creates a strong connection. A sinker is attached to the bottom of the rig. I carry different size sinkers and attach the lightest one that will allow me to hold the bottom.
Bait is the most important component. I use table fare shrimp or fish bites. Do not peel the shrimp; just place a small piece on each hook. Sometimes, I insert a small quarter inch piece of a fish bite over the hook after the shrimp. This keeps the shrimp on the hook and prevents smaller fish from stealing the bait before a larger fish eats it. Remember – the fresher the bait – the better the chance for success.
Most bottom fish can be found within fifteen feet of our shore line. So cast just over the waves. Let the bait sit on the bottom and wait for the bite. The bite feels like a tap tap tap. When you feel the bite, just raise your rod tip and reel in. If your line moves on the bottom, change to the next size up sinker.
It’s that simple.
Fishing on the Outer Banks surf can be fun for the entire family. It’s inexpensive and an easy thing to do.
In my photo, I included a number of other parts of your fishing bag – sand spike, tape measure, finger nail clippers, piers, hand towel and a small knife. A copy of the NC Coastal Recreational Angler’s Guide is also a great resource. As with all hobbies, your gear may include dozens of other items – but these are the basics.
One final tip – release all fish carefully that you are not going to keep so they may be caught again. This resource can be depleted quickly if we don’t practice good conservation.
So the next time you have a little free time and want to learn a new hobby – take up fishing on our coast. It’s a great place to enjoy the outdoors and our beautiful beaches.
Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony
NCsaltaire 