Post
by Lecterfan » Mon May 02, 2016 8:49 am
Hey Steve, surf fishing can be a very personal thing...people have their own set ups and will swear by them. One thing I would say about fishing gear is the same about any activity that requires tools: anything that is "general purpose" means it is a compromise. If you want a surf set up, then get a surf set up. Then decide if you are mostly targeting mullet and whiting and average size salmon, or whether you want to be throwing big baits into the surf on 6/0 hooks. One rod will do both but will be a massive compromise.
I prefer 13'6" rods as a starting point, but you might need to practice your casting for accuracy and distance - there are some great tips and links from some (I think) competition casters on this site (and youtube in general). But actually getting out there fishing will help heaps as well. 12' is pretty standard and will do for a start.
I'm not going to suggest any models because I am not up on all the brands and availability, but there is no need to blow the budget for a start. For e.g. I am still using a two piece surf rod from BCF that I got a few years ago as a last minute purchase so a mate could come with me (big field surf or something???), and since then it has become one of my favourite rods. It is great for salmon and gummies and can handle rays also. Plus, it was only $60 or something, so when the day comes that I break it on some rocks or whatever I'm not going to lose any sleep. My other set up is a lever drag alvey on a custom 13'6" fibreglass blank that a friend made for me many years ago and is still going strong.
Some don't like waders. I do. With care, caution, and slowly gaining experience waders are fine. But they can be dangerous in some situations (unless going for full neoprene etc). As with all things: don't be a d*ckhead and don't tempt fate with steep beaches with big waves.
Surf fishing can be hard, but having the right tools can make it more comfortable and rewarding etc etc. I'm sure you'll get more specific advice from others. Good luck!