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Beach fishing is a popular option for many anglers due to the snag free and wide variety of species it offers. This guide will cover the different types of gear you'll need and explain a few different ways of fishing from a beach.Â
CHOOSING A ROD AND REEL
There's a variety of different beachcaster also known as surfcaster rods available with different strengths and lengths. Generally while fishing from the beach you're going to want a longer rod to be able to cast further distances. The average rod length used by anglers is between 12ft and 14ft.Â
While you might see many anglers using multiplier reels for beach casting, fixed spool reels will still work great and are most commonly used by beginners. Although multiplier reels will increase your casting distance they are more difficult to use and can tangle up more easily.
There are also rod and reel combos available which are suitable for beginners and come with a balanced setup with line already on the spool. However, if the line's breaking strain is below 30lb and you want to cast out large 4oz weights then you'll have to add a shock leader. A shock leader should have a minimum breaking strain of 40lb and will reduce the chance of the lead snapping off during a cast which could potentially be dangerous.Â
LEADS
There's a wide range of styles and weights to choose from when it comes to leads. Typically beach fishing youre fighting against the wind and the waves so having a rod, reel and line that can handle heavier leads will help casting distances. The three most commonly used leads for beach casting are plain bombs, gripping leads and tail bombs.
Plain bomb leads are usually great for most situations. However, if you're fishing in a storm with a strong tide or wind it's better to use a grip lead. Gripping leads typically have four wire arms which will dig into the sand and stop the lead from sliding. If there's enough pressure placed on the lead then the arms will fold backwards for easier retrievals. Tail bombs are used to cast more accurately and can help achieve further distances.Â
BAITS
There's quite a few baits to choose from while beach fishing and most local tackle shops will have popular baits. A commonly used bait is worms, more specifically beach worms. These are perfect for any angler to use including beginners as they are easy to thread onto the hook and are generally a cheap option. There are also other baits such as squid and other deadbaits which work well. Generally asking local anglers or staff at the local fishing store can help guide you on the best bait for that beach.Â
NIGHT FISHING
Many anglers enjoy fishing into the night and can often be when fish start to feed more confidently. While night fishing it's important to have a light source available. We recommend having either a lamp or head torch. We also have a Buyers Guide to Head Torches if you would like help to buy one. Also, having a rod with a coloured tip will greatly increase its visibility and will be easier to spot if you have a fish on the end or your line.Â
TRIPODS
Investing in a tripod stand for your rod can make your beach sessions more relaxing as no one wants to stand holding a 12ft rod all day. Tripods also prevent sand from getting in and ruining the reel by placing the rod onto the ground. It's also a good idea to set the drag low enough so that the fish can pull the line and not the whole rod.
