“Surfcasting Tips”
for Striped Bass
“Fishing” is called fishing because there are no guarantees for success. But there are a few things you can do to increase the odds in your favor. I hope the information below will help you not only catch more stripers but will also make your surfcasting experience one you'll always remember.
If you happen to be a novice at surfcasting my first bit of advice is to get out on the beach and start watching and talking to those already fishing. The majority of fishermen and women will gladly explain how things are done, how the fish are biting and of course…. brag a lot about their past adventures.
Don't expect them to tell you where the “hot spots” are. You'll need to find them yourself. And this will be accomplished by, observing the beach geography at low tide, looking for obstructions in the water, drop offs and reefs which are hidden at high tide and which can harbor the lunkers !! These drop-offs and obstructions are where you might want to start fishing at tide change. A “GPS”is very helpful in marking these areas for your future night trips.
If you're just starting out with surf casting, my advice is “don't spend a fortune” on your rods and reels. You are going to either love it or hate it. No gray area here! I started out with a cheap rod and reel.
Make sure you have sand spikes long enough to get deep in the sand because when that Striper hits you don't want to be chasing your rod and reel. It happened to me once while night fishing and if it wasn't for the cheap $2.00, glow stick on the end of my rod my rod $300.00 + would have been added to Davy Jones' locker.
Make sure you dress for the weather (Rain gear, extra tee-shirts, pants, socks, jackets, etc). Summer nights can get chilly by the water. Don't forgets your food and drinks- bring plenty!! Slow periods tend to bring on an appetite.
Whether you're “chunk” or eels or worms, remember, fresh is best. I have found that old, smelly bait can really attract crabs, skates and sea robins. So , unless that's what you're fishing for, use the freshest bait possible.
When using live eels, cast with as little weight as possible and let the current take the eel adrift for a bit. Then reel in very slowly. Just make sure you're ready when that “lunker” hits.
On the Lures page I have the recommendations for fishing each type of lure.
One ole timer told me that if you catch a striper during the day, if you fish that same spot at night you'll catch 10 stripers. I found over the years that there is some truth to what he said. I've taken more stripers at night then during the daylight hours. And most where caught during tide-out. Many may disagree with that but that's what works for me.
If you do fish at night use a small miners light. Keeps both hands free and directs light to where you need it. Bon-fires, floodlights, headlights and lanterns will spook the stripers. They have incredible eye sight. Never shine your light into the water.
Enjoy and Stay Informed
Surf casting will not only provide you with a possibility of a catch but will give you a lasting memory to share with others. Enjoy nature at it's best. Leave only your footprints on the shore. Don't liter. Please obey all state/local/federal regulations. There are many helpful books written on Stripers and Surfcasting.
When you go to buy bait….. ask questions.
And last but not least…..