I’m getting into surf fishing and would love to hear your thoughts on the best surf setups. What rods and reels do you all use? Any recommendations for specific brands or models that have worked well for you?
I don't have either of those, but the Fuego reels have a good reputation.
One note:
The link to the reel you posted is for the 2000 size reel; I think a 2500 size (Like Zhao has) would balance better on a rod that's 8 feet six inches long.
I mostly use 7 foot rods in the surf, with a 2000 reel, but when I use a longer rod, it gets a 2500 or 3000 size reel.
There are a lot of setups that will work well in the surf. A solid entry setup is an Okuma Celilo 9'6" ML with a 3000 size reel.
Now "best" setups are really a matter of personal preference. I like to use a Loomis STR1263C 10'6" steelhead rod with a Tranx 200XG baitcaster. I use this rod exclusively with 1 ounce weights and sand crabs - It doesn't work well for lures. It also takes practice to learn to cast.
My buddy likes to use 4000 size reels with sand spikes, 20lb mono, 2 hooks and 4 ounce weights. Real old-school.
I have other friends who exclusively throw lucky crafts and similar lures for halibut. They seem to like light 8'6" rods and 3000 size spinners. They are willing to pay extra for a light rod that is not too tip-heavy. On the rare occasions I fish for halibut, I use the 9'6" Celilo mentioned above and it works fine.
Just one more comment... buy a setup that makes you smile when use it. It is going to be in your hands a long time. I really believe that enjoying the experience will lead to more hookups.
Zhao wrote: Fri Sep 27, 2024 10:14 pm
Interestingly, I use the exact combination. My workhorse on sandy beaches. They caught my share of surf perch, croakers, beans, guitars, rays...
That's awesome! I'm kind of leaning towards that particular combo. Thanks!
Carpkiller wrote: Sat Sep 28, 2024 6:08 am
I don't have either of those, but the Fuego reels have a good reputation.
One note:
The link to the reel you posted is for the 2000 size reel; I think a 2500 size (Like Zhao has) would balance better on a rod that's 8 feet six inches long.
I mostly use 7 foot rods in the surf, with a 2000 reel, but when I use a longer rod, it gets a 2500 or 3000 size reel.
have fun,
CK.....
I usually use 4000 size reels for light line surf fishing. Daiwa Fuego is unique that its 2500 size has an "XH" model, which has higher retrieval speed than its 4000 size ones, hence the pick.
Mike M wrote: Sat Sep 28, 2024 7:26 am
There are a lot of setups that will work well in the surf.
Just one more comment... buy a setup that makes you smile when use it. It is going to be in your hands a long time. I really believe that enjoying the experience will lead to more hookups.
This ^^^^
I use a St Croix Legend Elite 9'-6" light, moderate (4-8#, 1/16 3-8oz) spinning rod with 3000 Shimano Vanford, 6# mono, 4# fluoro leader and 3/8oz C-rig with sand crabs/blood worms/ ghost shrimp for bait... I use this set up for 99% of my fishing with a similar but heavier rig for really rough days...
Butch
