Catch 268/365

"Surf Spinning"

Interested in getting into surf fishing?  The following is a brief rundown on common surf spinning rod and reel combos and common uses for South Florida beaches.  Uses will vary depending on location.  

1.  "Traditional" Surf Rod- 10-13' Surf Rod matched with a 6000-8000 size spinning reel spooled w/ 15-25lb monofilament line.  This long surf rod is ideal for those that want to cast a bait out, stick the rod in the sandspike, and kick back in a beach chair until a fish bites.  Pick the longest rod you feel comfortable with.  Longer rods provide a longer cast, and help keep line out of the water when the surf is up. 
Common Uses- Bait Fishing w/ bottom rig.
Common Species- Pompano, Bluefish, Croaker, Whiting, Jacks, Blue Runner

2.  "Crossover" Lure/Bait Surf Rod- 8-10' Spinning Rod (Graphite preferably) matched with a 5000-6000 size spinning reel and typically filled with 30-50lb braided line.  This setup is ideal for those interested in being able to use both lures and bait.
Common Uses- Bait Fishing in calm conditions, throwing heavy lures(spoons, diamond jigs, poppers, etc), "bobber" rig (as described earlier)
Common Species- Snook, Tarpon, Blacktip Sharks, Jacks, Bluefish, Spanish Mackerel

3. Light Spinning Rod- 7-8' Spinning Rod matched with 3000-4000 size spinning reel and filled with 8-10lb monofilament or 10-20lb braided line.  This is a a setup that can be used for smaller lures or light bait rigs in calm surf conditions.
Common Uses- Summertime snook sight fishing, pompano jigging, throwing small spoons and gotcha lures, croaker/whiting bottom fishing, and much more
Common Species-Snook, Croaker, Whiting, Pompano, blue runners, bluefish, spanish mackerel