8 Surf Fishing Tips You Should Know
Surf fishing season is upon us, and as the weather warms up fishermen of all ages and skill sets are flocking to the shoreline. While many people are sure to try out surf fishing this season, not all will be successful. There are different strategies when it comes to surf fishing - different anglers prefer different types of rods, baits, and lures. There are even those who opt for drone fishing rather than traditional surf fishing.
Whether you’re an experienced angler or a first-time fisher, these surf fishing tips can help you find success and stay safe.
1/Find the Right Surf Fishing Rod
Finding the right fishing rod for surf fishing depends on a few factors. The longer the fishing rod, the longer you’ll probably be able to cast, so if you’re aiming to cast long distances, a longer rod is better.
Your choice of fishing rod also depends on whether you use live bait or lures. When using lures, a shorter rod is preferred, as you’ll have better cast and retrieve action and control. For those casting lures, aim for a rod from 7 to 9 feet. If you’re bait casting and want to cast a long distance, look for a fishing rod in the 9 to 14 foot range.
The material of your fishing rod is also a factor - most surf fishing anglers opt for a graphite rod. Graphite fishing rods are more sensitive and stronger for casting weighted lines into the surf. They also have a faster action than their fiberglass or composite mix counterparts.
2/ Track the Tides
The tides are a major factor when surf fishing. At dead high or low tide, the water is not moving, and therefore there is less movement among the fish, decreasing your chances of a catch. Track the tides in your location to make the most out of your time on the shore.
Most anglers cite the best time to fish at the two hours right before and after high tide. High tide is better than low tide, as it pulls the fish closer to the shore. Right as the tide is flowing out, the fish will be moving towards the shore with the tide, and the movement will improve your chances of a catch. The same is true right as the tide ebbs back towards the ocean.
High tide is still a good time to fish, but when the water is still the chance of a catch decreases. Fish during high tide, but get there while the tide is coming in.
3/Use Shock Leaders
Surf fishing requires weights to pull your bait down into the surf. Because of this, weighted lines are, of course, heavier. Casting these heavy lines, especially when going for distance, can result in crack-offs - your line breaking with the weight. This is not only costly, as you lose gear, but can also be dangerous if sharp hooks are lost in the sand or the surf.
Use a shock leader - a stronger line specifically for cushioning the pressure of casting weights - to prevent crack-offs. A good shock leader is nylon monofilament line that is low-stretch and abrasion resistant. As a rule of thumb, your shock leader strength should be about 10 times the weight (in ounces) of the weight your casting.
4/Aim For Smooth Waters
Keep an eye on the water to determine the best place to aim for when casting. Short, breaking waves usually mean that there is a sand bank there, and shallow water won’t supply many fish. Aim for smooth, flatter areas on the ocean. This usually suggests deep waters that will house more fish and improve your chances of making a catch.
5/Keep Your Bait Cold
If you’re using live bait, it’s important to keep the bait cold so that it doesn’t die. Warm, dead bait won’t attract fish. Pack a cooler to keep your bait fresh and cold to maximize your chances of success. An aerated cooler is ideal, as the bait need oxygenated water to survive. If you can swing it, buy a cooler with an aeration system to keep bait as fresh as possible.
6/Try Drone Fishing
Drone fishing is the latest trend in the world of surf fishing. When you fish with a drone, your baited hook and line are attached to the drone. Since most drones are equipped with cameras, you can fly out over the water and find a spot that looks good, and then drop your line via a payload release or a downrigger release clip.
Drone fishing allows you to reach further distances than you would when casting manually, and can be useful in finding the best areas to drop your line. Try out drone fishing for an exciting new way to surf fish this season.
7/Protect Yourself From the Sun
Like any day on the beach, you need to be aware of the sun when surf fishing. Long hours outside can lead to painful sunburn, and worse, skin cancer further down the line. Invest in a good fishing hat to protect your face, ears, and neck from the sun’s harmful UV rays, and always wear sunscreen. Even on overcast days, you can still get badly burnt. Wear a hat and sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, and reapply as needed.
8/Stay Hydrated
Similar to protecting your skin, you need to protect your overall health while fishing. Spending long hours fishing in the hot sun can dehydrate you, and even if it’s not that hot it’s vital to stay hydrated. Pack lots of water and remember to drink it throughout the day.
If you want to enjoy some beers while surf fishing, pack those too, but alternate with water so the alcohol doesn’t further dehydrate you. You should also be careful consuming alcohol and always know your limits, as you could potentially injure yourself or someone else with sharp fishing equipment.
Use these surf fishing tips to maximize your success and catch more fish this season, while also staying safe and smart out on the shore.
How to Clean a Fishing Reel
The number of times you clean your fishing reel really depends on how often you go fishing. Nevertheless, whether your fishing reel is meant for freshwater or seawater, the right level of maintenance can help to keep it in good working order and even improve its lifespan and effectiveness.
Surprisingly, most people who own fishing reels do not know how to keep them clean. For instance, you should not blast your fishing reel using harsh spray from the end of your hose. Doing so damages your piece of equipment.
It’s important that you clean your reel every once in a while. Not only does this improve its durability but also its efficiency. The frequency with which you clean will vary based on a number of factors we have listed in this guide.
Gather the correct cleaning supplies and tools
You need a few tools to clean the fishing reel. Before you start, collect all the essential tools or equipment you will need for the cleaning process. You may need screwdrivers, a toothpick, tweezers, and a toothbrush.
You will also need a parts list and a wrench. Depending on your preference, choose the best cleaning product for the job. Once you are through with your fishing expedition, there are several ways to go about cleaning your reel. When you reach home, sponge your reel with soapy water. Do the same for the line. You can then rinse off with water at the lowest pressure.
Do not attempt to wash your reel with high pressure. Neither should you immerse the reel in water, as this would force water up the gearing and drag mechanism. After a thorough rinse, wipe your reel dry using a cloth and then apply some WD40 surface spray. Ensure the spray does not reach the fishing line.
The underside of the spool
The underside is also another area that requires special attention. Remove the knob and slide off your spool. Then, clean the underside thoroughly. Gently grease the major shaft and be sure to replace the spool and knob properly.
Also, ensure your drag knob is loosened a little to keep pressure off the dragline when you’re not using your reel.
In addition, you’ll need to invest in a high-quality sewing machine oil or a reel oil. These are to keep the knobs, line rollers, bail arm springs, and the folding handles lubricated. Don’t forget to wipe off any excess lubricant.
Full Service
Occasionally, you should open up the side plate and grease the gears and bearing gently. Also, give it a comprehensive service once every year or when your reel falls into the water. This means taking the reel apart completely before you soak it in mineral turps. Fresh water should be used to rinse the parts then air them out in the open to dry. As the parts dry, inspect the gears and check for damages.
If you find signs of damage, ensure you order for new parts as soon as possible. Also, put everything back together and then lubricate moving parts with enough grease.
Most reels have several parts, and chances are you might reassemble everything back incorrectly. If you feel you cannot put things back together as they were, outsource the job to a reel expert and allow them to clean it appropriately. A full service often means cleaning the outside and the inside thoroughly.
Outside cleaning
Cleaning the outside of your reel is a simple process that will take a few minutes of your time. Perform outside cleaning at least once each week for normal fishing conditions. Take out the spool and put it in a safe place. Turn reel handle and lower its axle. Hold reel at a favorable angle and shift interior rotor away from your body.
Apply some WD-40 on either side. Give the reel a quick spurt and be careful not to apply the stuff in the rotor’s housing or spool axle. With a soft rag, wipe off WD-40 on the reel’s outer surface.
Inside cleaning
This phase of cleaning the reel is somewhat complicated. It requires attentiveness when taking the reel apart. Once you know what to do, it becomes simple and will not take more than 15 minutes of your time.
Most reels are built the same way, so the interior plumbing is pretty much the same. Work over a towel. Remove the screws holding the reel’s cover and put them somewhere safe. Lay them in the order you took them out if they look different. Take out the gearing and other parts and clean everything properly. Allow them to dry and then put everything back together and apply grease.
Cleaning the entire Rod
If the rod and the reel are in good condition, you will have an enjoyable fishing experience. So, do not just focus on the reel alone.
After each fishing session, spray your rod with fresh water while still on your boat as you head back home. This helps to get rid of the salts deposited on the rod’s components. However, that is not enough to clean the reel. Spraying the rod with some water does not mean that you should not do some more cleaning. Once you reach home, clean the rod the same way you would clean other essential parts.
Wrap Up
Take time to inspect your guide for signs of fracturing. If you notice hairline fractures, replace your guide immediately. Failure to amend the damages may cause your guide to weaken your fishing reel.
As you store your fishing rod, ensure you place it in a cover and place it on a rod stand. It would not make sense to clean your fishing reel and fail to give it proper storage. When you store it properly, it will serve you for a long time.
How To Cast, Maintain, And Choose The Best Underspin Reel
In this article, you will be guided about some of the best underspin reel reviews as well as maintenance and casting techniques.
Preview | Product | Out Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Daiwa Underspin-XD Series, Trigger-Control Closed-Face Reel | |
| Zebco 33 Gold Micro Triggerspin | |
| Zebco Micro Trigger-spin 11MTS Fishing Reel | |
| Shakespeare Synergy Steel Reel |
Underspin reels are a type of lightweight reels. This reel type is a product of years of research and the latest technologies. They are generally easier to use, and while most anglers consider them as something only kids and beginners should use, they can actually add challenge to the fishing game of those with years of experience.
Underspin fishing reels or triggerspin reels are kind of like a combination of spinning and spincast reels. Like spin cast reels, they have an enclosed face. They also hang underneath standard spinning rods like spinning reels do. However, they have an added feature: they have a trigger that’s useful when casting.
How To Cast, Maintain, And Choose The Best Underspin Reel
Best Underspin Reel Reviews
1. Daiwa Underspin-XD Series Reel - Editor’s Pick
Via Amazon.com
The Daiwa Underspin XD Series is my best pick because I like how it’s ultra-lightweight and very well built. You also get a good deal for a nice reel for a reasonable price.
Unlike most other similar reels, Daiwa XD uses a trigger release activated by your finger through the forward-facing lever. It also has a bottom-mounted configuration that prevents line twisting or backlash. This reel is constructed with rugged metal gears and a Hardboyz Rigid aluminum alloy which makes it solid and durable without bearing too much weight.
It also allows me to get an excellent hook set, smooth retrieves, and longer casts thanks to the oversized line aperture, ball bearing drive, and rotating titanium nitrided line pickup. Aside from the trigger release, it also has a rear dial operated drag that makes it manageable with only one hand and prevents accidental or unwanted adjustments. It is also suitable for use with a wide variety of rods including noodle models and flies.
Pros
- Great reel for its price
- Ideal for catching large fish of up to 7 pounds
- Easily adjustable
- Large spool diameter and center hole for precise and long-range casting
- Great for everyday use
- Works well and easy to use for teaching and learning beginner techniques
- Minimizes line tangles, twisting, and backlash
- Offers a smooth drag
Cons
- Reports of multiple and repeated drag system malfunctions
- Drag knob is loosely attached
- The tangle-prevention or anti-reverse mechanisms does not work very well or tend to stop working after some time
- The line that comes with the spool is of low quality and low sensitivity
- Made in China
2. Zebco 33 Gold Micro Triggerspin- Alternative Pick
Via Amazon.com
This Spincast convertible triggerspin reel from Zebco is made with a highly durable graphite frame, and industrial-grade brushed stainless steel covers. The reasons why I did not choose this as the best underspin reel on the market among those listed here is because it is slightly more expensive than the Daiwa XD.
There are also very few reviews about it, a nice chunk of which report about it negatively. Therefore, I assumed that it does not work as well for everybody and may somehow require some getting used to.
Anyway, what I like about it is its continuous Anti-reverse technology that prevents the handle from moving while I pay out the line to reel in heavy or struggling fish. It also comes pre-spooled with a 4-pound Cajun line that is 90 yards long. It has a 3-bearing drive, and a convertible retriever as well. It has a gear ratio of 4:3:1.
If you purchase it from certified resellers, you can also get a 1-year limited manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- Changeable ambidextrous retrieve
- Lightweight yet heavy duty graphite frame
- Continuous Anti-reverse
- Dial adjustable, smooth drag
- Dual ceramic pick-up pins
- Great for jigging, stream fishing for trout, or crappie fishing with a fly rod
- Easy to cast
- Quality-made
Cons
- One user notes he had to tighten the reel handle screws pretty often
- Many customers report defects and non-functionality
- The line that comes with it breaks easily for a 4-pound test
- Grinds as if the gears and bearings are shot even with minimal use
3. Zebco Micro Triggerspin 11MTS Fishing Reel- Budget Pick
Via Amazon.com
If you are looking for a best triggerspin reel and you have a limited budget, this Zebco Micro Triggerspin Reel is one of your best bets. For only a few bucks, you get a triggerspin casting trigger with a line release system and a selective anti-reverse mechanism-equipped fishing reel with multiple stops.
I also applaud the adjustable drag that lets me adjust the drag according to the type, size, and strength of the fish using a simple dial.
I also like its graphite frame and corrosion-resistant stainless steel covers. Whether you’re right-handed or left-handed, you can use this reel easily thanks to the changeable ambidextrous retrieve setting.
It also features all-metal extra-hard magnum gears, dual pick-up pins, and ball-bearing drive with a gear ratio of 4:3:1. The pick-up pins are also ceramic and cut-proof. It even comes pre-spooled with a 4-pound, 90-yard-long monofilament line with authentic Zebco quality.
Pros
- Bite Alert technology
- Quick Set anti-reverse mechanism
- Pre-spooled trigger cast reel
- Durable graphite frame
- Easily adjustable drag
- Great for freshwater fishing interchangeable ambidextrous retrieve system
- Smooth action and casting
- Ultra-lightweight
- Small size
Cons
- Drag calibration is a bit tricky to adjust
- Snags toward the end of line retrieval due to an unknown cause
- Makes a noisy, growling sound during retrieval
- Sloppy crank handle
- Has a plastic trigger
- Not ideal for beginners
4. Shakespeare Synergy Steel Underspin Reel - Upgrade Pick
Via Amazon.com
Shakespeare has built a long reputation for producing quality and affordable fishing tackle and gear. However, the Synergy Underspin reel from the company qualifies as the upgrade pick since it is the most expensive among all reels in this list, although not by much,
This reel can be used by anyone in the family, beginner or expert alike. It features a polished stainless steel front cone and rear cover, a steel handle, and a titanium line guide as well.
It also has insta-grab dual titanium pickup pins and is driven by a 4:1:1- ratio gear. Another thing I like about this reel is its adjustable, multi-disc drag system which allows me to control the drag depending on my target fish.
This reel helps reduce damage to the line thanks to its durable elastomeric pinch ring. It also comes pre-spooled with a 70-yard 4-pound line. The Synergy Titanium Microspin Reel also features a chrome-plated steel handle with easy-grip textured rubber knobs. The hand-convertible retrieve also makes it easy to use for both right-handed and left-handed users.
Pros
- Durable and lightweight frame
- Suitable for everyday use by anglers of all skill levels
- Uses metal gears with a 4:1:1 ratio for durability
- Secure lock screw in the rear cover and handle provides better support
- Holds up very well for medium-sized fish
- Very easy to use
- Good adjustable drag system
- Easy to grasp
- Great as a backpack reel
Cons
- Might be too small for some fishermen or anglers
- One user reports that his reel won’t reel the line back in after casting
- Some plastic pieces tend to be weak and often defective
- The drag system is very limited when it comes to tightness
- The fixes for common problems on the reel require complicated steps
What Are Underspin Or Triggerspin reels?
As mentioned earlier, an underspin or triggerspin reel is essentially just a combination of a spinning reel and a spin cast reel. It can also be viewed as a spin cast reel mounted under a standard spinning rod. It has a lever also known as the “trigger” which is held by a finger, usually the forefinger.
When casting forward casts, the trigger is released, and the line unwinds and releases from the fixed spool. Similar to spin cast reels, underspin reels have pick-up pins instead of the usual wire bails to hold the line. The closed face of an underspin reel is often a rounded hood where a hole for the line to pass through is located. The latest models typically feature larger hole sizes to allow for longer and smoother casting.
The enclosure can be made with various materials like hard plastic, aluminum alloys, or other metals. This enclosure is where you can find the spool system along with other components and mechanisms that prevent backlash, tangles, or twisting of the line.
What are the advantages of a triggerspin reel or underspin reel? There are many advantages of underspin reels that not everyone knows about. For some of the most notable benefits of underspin reels, check out this list below:
Most triggerspin or underspin reels can be purchased already pre-spooled with fishing lines
Triggerspin reels are among the ideal reels to be used for most kinds of freshwater fishing
The latest and most innovative and sophisticated underspin models are also rich in upgraded features
Underspin reels are very suitable
All triggerspin or underspin reels are equipped with adjustable drag systems
Similar to many other reel types
How To Cast An Underspin Reel
There are many ways to cast a reel. However, specific types may require certain skills or techniques to cast properly. For instructions on how you should cast an underspin reel, refer to the tutorial below:
1. When casting a triggerspin reel, the first thing you should do is squeeze the trigger. So hold it with your forefinger or index finger. This holds and secures your fishing line.
2. Next, position the rod tip at an angle behind you somewhere within or between the two o’clock and three o’clock positions if you plan to make an over-the-shoulder cast. For a sidearm cast, you can also bring your rod to one side, all the while still holding the trigger.
3. Determine your target and keep your eye on it. Focus on aiming at that target.
4. Begin making a forward cast by swinging the rod tip back a little and then shooting it forward with a single smooth and continuous motion.
5. Make sure to release the trigger held by your finger on the right moment, usually around the 10 o’clock position or when the fishing rod’s tip aligns evenly with your body, for a smoother, farther cast.6. To retrieve, turn the handle to re-engage the lock.
For an illustration on how to properly do that, please check out this video:
General Care And Maintenance Tips For Closed-Faced Reels
Regardless of whether your reel is expensive or not, you should still observe proper care and maintenance to make sure it will last longer and will work optimally every time you use it.
Because closed-faced reels like underspin reels come with enclosures, regular maintenance is a bit more challenging due to the extra steps and measures you should remember. Here are the tips on how you can keep your reel working great for a long, long time:
- Make sure to keep your reel free from dirt, sand, and other debris. In cases where this cannot be prevented, remove the debris as soon as you can.
- Store your reels in a dust-free shelf, shed, or storage area.
- Clean and dry your reel completely before storing to avoid rust and other problems.
- Use a protective container, bag, or cover for your fishing equipment.
- Apply lubrication on parts of your reel that needs it, but only sparingly. Do not use WD-40 but choose recommended reel lubricants only. WD-40 tends to build up over time, which can run your equipment on top of ruining your otherwise smooth retrieves and casts.
Conclusion
So those are the best underspin reel reviews! Remember to follow the care and maintenance tips and casting instructions especially if you are a beginner. Knowing the basics is always important for any activity or sport.
Did you learn anything new and did this article help you choose the ideal equipment for you? If so, please feel free to share it with your friends and family! You are also welcome to leave your comments, questions, or suggestions in the comment section below so please do so. I’d love to hear from you!
You might also like : What Does Shad Eat? (What You Need To Know To Find The Perfect Bait)
All You Need To Know About The Best Spincast Reel-Buyer Guide’s ( 2019)
Spincast reels improve your angling experience to quite an extent. These are versatile reels that are perfect to be used by beginner anglers. These spin cast reels are also called 'Open Face' reels. These reels stay extremely balanced by hanging below the rod that makes them comfortable for the angler to handle and use.
Therefore if you are a beginner or an intermediate angler and are looking to purchase the best spin cast reel then you must first know the real well and study the various kinds with precision.
Top 5 Best Spincast Reels
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BEST |  |  |  |  |  |
Our Rating: | |||||
Amazon's customers rating & reviews: | (90 reviews) | (260 reviews) | (155 reviews) | (9 reviews) | (15 reviews) |
Price: | $51.22
| $57.28
| $46.90
| $24.22
| $39.99
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Last Update: | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2018-08-20 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details |
How To Tie A Spinnerbait With Step by Step Instructions?
Do you want to start using a spinnerbait for catching your fishes? Are you facing problem in productivity despite using perfect spinnerbait? Perhaps, you are not tying the bait appropriately to the monofilament fishing lines. If you want to know how to tie a spinnerbait to your line, this guide is perfect for you. Before we go into the instructions, let us know what exactly a spinnerbait is.
It is one of the widely used and popular types of fishing lure. It is made up of a hook which is attached to a head, frilled skirt, and attractive blades. It is popularly used for its ability to catch versatile fishes and is available in different colors. If you are struggling to tie a spinnerbait perfectly, this guide is your perfect read.
How To Spool A Baitcaster Like An Expert
Spooling a fishing line in a bait caster is an embarrassing thing for many anglers who lack the knowledge on how to do it. Some anglers waste hundreds of fishing line yards only to become experts in creating backlashes on these fishing lines. This blueprint guides those anglers who experience the spooling embarrassment while thumbing the line on the bait caster and thus liberating them from this agony.
What Every Angler Should Know About Using a Baitcaster
I can comfortably say that my perfection in using a bait caster has always made other anglers to envy the ease at which I use it and the rewarding result I get from it. I always tell them that with just a little patience and a lot of practice, they can get to be like me, or even better than I am.
Despite the fact that most anglers prefer the spinning and casting reels that are easier to use, a baitcasting gear always gives you an upper hand compared to other types of reels.
What You Need To Know About Spooling A Spinning Reel
Anglers can catch fish as a means of earning a living and also as a recreational activity. To have a fruitful and smooth fishing spree, you ought to have the appropriate fishing tools, appropriate tactics, endurance and zeal. To add to that, you definitely need to know how to use the fishing tools appropriately.
One of the most important things that you need to know is how to spool a spinning reel. I took my time to learn how to do it because I realized that having it right is a big plus for my fishing activities.
Each and every detail has to be done correctly, with almost no room for mistakes. A single mistake is bound to make a huge mess. To help you avoid ruining your fishing spree, here are a few things that you should pay close attention to when spooling your reel.
The Top 10 Best Rated Spinning Reels For Serious Anglers – Buyer Guide’s (2018)
Fishing has always been my all-time best recreational activity next to traveling. Spending time wrestling with the fish to secure my catch always thrills me. Due to this much experience, I have had enough time to experiment a couple of spinning reels, and this has enabled me to identify the best with the most appealing features.
I have listed the ten best spinning reels putting into consideration their affordability for the budget-minded anglers. With the knowledge on the best spinning reels, you will always bring your catch home.
TOP 10 BEST SPINNING REELS
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KastKing Summer Spinning Reel Light Weight Ultra Smooth Powerful |
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BEST |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Our Rating: | ||||||||||
Amazon's customers rating & reviews: | (262 reviews) | (42 reviews) | (302 reviews) | (146 reviews) | (448 reviews) | (546 reviews) | (60 reviews) | (121 reviews) | (688 reviews) | (165 reviews) |
Price: | $33.99
| from $36.97
| $25.98
| $32.11
| $59.95
| $69.93
| $161.25
| $44.46
| $39.98
| $49.95
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Best For: | Fly Fishing | Fly Fishing | Ice Fishing | Ice Fishing | Surf Fishing | Surf Fishing | Spinning Casting | Spinning Casting | Bait Casting | Bait Casting |
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Last Update: | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details | 2017-09-08 PST - Details |