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Surf fishing is an enjoyable experience.; it allows you to catch a variety of fish from the shoreline or beach. Surf fishing is not as easy as it sounds. It would be best to have fishing techniques and equipment to land bigger fish in larger numbers. Some of the equipment you need for surf fishing include surf fishing rods, reels, tackle, and bait.
What is a Surf Fishing Rod?
Surf fishing rods are equipment necessary for casting. Usually, surf fishing rods are heavy because you need to throw rigs and lures.
What type of fish can you catch with surf fishing rods?
Surf fishing rods can catch a variety of fishes, including bluefish, striped bass, and sharks. Speckled sea trout, mackerel, and tarpon are also fishes you can catch with a surf fishing rod.
Things to note when choosing surf rods
Without the correct information, selecting the right surf fishing rod may be a challenge. There are several things to note before selecting a surf fishing rod, including;
- Rod length: surf fishing rods range between 7 and 15 feet in length. Surf rods between 7 and 9 feet are ideal for catching small to medium fish, and they are suitable for close work under the jetty. On the other hand, rods between 9 and 12 feet are ideal for almost all surf fishing conditions, including fan casting, jetties, and throwing long casts. Fishing rods between 12 and 15 feet are only suitable for throwing long casts and catching large fish. It is advisable to choose the longest rods suitable for you. Surf rod length contributes to the casting distance, helping you lure past breaking waves and present the bait. Furthermore, if you are targeting larger fish species, a longer rod gives you more leverage. It is important to note that if you are short in stature or have some physical limitations, it is best to go for shorter rods because they are convenient and comfortable.
- Rod Power: this factor refers to the lifting power or strength of the rod. Rod power usually ranges from light to heavy. Most anglers prefer medium-heavy rods because they are the most versatile option. In addition to rod power, choose a suitable line to match the rod. Rods with heavier power will perform better with heavier lines. Light lines will break the fish off frequently.
- Rod Action: this is the bend or taper a rod displays under pressure. Casting distance and the power of the hook setting depend on rod action. Fast action rods bend near the tip while slow action rods bend at the center. Furthermore, fast action rods give more casting distance, and they are most suitable when fishing lures in the surf. Also, fast action rods are ideal for rigs with a single hook, while slow action rods are ideal for treble hooks.
- Surf rod material: the material used in making surf rods determine their stiffness. Surf rods can be made from graphite; graphite rods are stiff, giving the rod lift, allowing you to pull something up. Fiberglass rods have a soft action, but they are still tough. Hybrid rods, on the other hand, are a fusion of graphite and fiberglass material with resin. Therefore, hybrid rods give room for different types of rod action.
- Reel Seats and Handles: when choosing surf rods, ensure you note the reel seats and handles. The ideal reel seat should be from non-corrosive material like graphite. Although metal alloy reel seats are efficient, they may corrode over time. Also, the rod handle is usually long and from materials like cork and foam. Choosing rod handles is entirely your preference.
Spinning Vs. Casting Rods
Both spinning and casting rods are available in several lengths, power, and action. However, what differentiates them are their reel type. Casting rods require casting reels. Casting reels look like small winches mounted to the rod. On the other hand, spinning rods require spinning reels. Spinning reels are open-faced, and they have a revolving bail that winds the line. In addition, spinning reels allow lighter lures and longer casts, while casting reels provide more power and enable accurate casting.
A spinning rod has a larger first guide than that of a casting rod. Therefore, the choice of a fishing rod is dependent on your technique.
How to care for your surf fishing rods?
Caring properly for your surf fishing rods can improve their durability. After fishing, always rinse your rod after every use. Rinsing the rod gets sand and salt off the rod. Also, you can disassemble the rod and rinse it well if you want to be thorough.
Furthermore, avoid leaving your rod to sit in standing water for too long. After rinsing your surf fishing rod, put the pieces in a warm, dry spot. Ensure the spot is out of the sun and let the rod dry before storage.
The 7 Best Surf Fishing Rods are Reviewed Below
There are several surf fishing rods on the market, and choosing one can be pretty challenging. This section discusses the best surf fishing rods in the market in no order.
1
Okuma Longitude Surf Graphite Rods
The Okuma longitude surf is a heavy action rod from blend material. The surf is ideal for the casting fishing technique, and its graphite composite blanks are sensitive, durable, and comfortable. The blanks help you cast heavy baits while feeling even the lightest bites. Furthermore, the premium quality components of the longitude surf can withstand harsh conditions, making them suitable for all-day fishing.
The longitude surf also has aluminum oxide guide inserts that are braid compatible, and its stainless steel frames are double footed, keeping the line running straight. In addition, the rods butt section is wrapped in premium cork, giving the rod a non-slip grip. Also, the reel seat is stainless hooded, keeping the reel in place while casting
Furthermore, the longitude surf has EVA cushions. The cushions are soft-touch, and they are above and below the reel seat. Also, there is a Pac Bay rubber cap that prevents slipping. The longitude surf is available in five lengths ranging between 8 and 12 feet to suit your needs. Also, there is a one-year limited warranty on the product.
Key Features:
- Sensitive graphite composite blanks
- Premium components
- Aluminum oxide guide inserts
- Stainless steel guide frames
- Cork wrapped handles
- A Stainless hooded reel seat
- EVA cushions
- Pac Bay rubber cap
- Limited one-year warranty
Specification:
- Brand: Okuma Fishing
- Material: Blend
- Length: 12 feet
- Action: moderate-fast
- Power: medium
- Color: Black / blue/ silver
- Dimension: 107 × 5 × 5 in
- Weight: 0.12 lbs.
- Fishing technique: Casting
Pros
- The rod has a moderate-fast action that gives you more casting distance
- The longitude surf’s power is medium, giving you more lift
- The fishing rod has a blend material that makes it versatile, more sensitive, and durable
- The longitude surf is ideal for the casting fishing technique
- The graphite blanks are sensitive and durable, providing comfort while fishing
- The rod allows you to cast heavy baits and feel the lightest bites
- The components of the longitude surf are premium and from quality materials. Therefore, the rod can withstand harsh conditions and rigorous fishing
- The rod has stainless steel guide frames. They are double footed, allowing the line to run straight
- The handles and butt section of the longitude surf are wrapped in non-slip cork to improve grip and feel
- The reel’s seat is stainless hooded, keeping the reel in place while fishing
- The reel seat has soft-touch EVA cushions. These cushions are above and below the reel seat, and they improve grip and comfort
- The longitude surf also features Pac Bay rubber caps on the rod’s butt, preventing the rod from slipping
- The rod is available in five lengths between 8 and 12 feet, to suit your preferences
- There is a one-year limited warranty on the Longitude surf
- The Okuma longitude surf is ideal for casting
Cons
- The rod is stiff and quite heavy
2
Penn Fishing Battalion II Surf Fishing Rod
The Penn fishing battalion II is a composite rod that has ultimate strength, style, and performance. The rod has a graphite composite blank that gives the rod a high sensitivity. Also, Battalion II has fuji alconite guides and reel seats. The guides provide the fishing rod with exceptional smoothness and improve its durability. Also, the fuji reel seats reduce fatigue and improve comfort, allowing you to catch fish without stress.
Another feature of battalion II is its rubber shrink tube handles that allows hook angling from the hook link, naturally presenting the bait. Also, the rod gives a secure grip both in wet and dry situations. Furthermore, battalion II comes with a manufacturer warranty.
Key Features:
- Graphite composite blank
- Fuji alconite guides
- Fuji reel seat
- Rubber shrink tube handles
Specification:
- Brand: Penn
- Material: composite
- Length: 10 feet
- Action: Fast
- Power: medium
- Color: black / gold
- Dimensions: 61.5 × 1.5 × 1.5 in
- Package Weight: 0.25 kg
- Fishing technique: Casting
Pros
- The Battalion II is made from a composite material that increases its versatility, sensitivity, and durability
- The rod’s graphite composite blank increases sensitivity, allowing you to feel the lightest bites when fishing
- The Fuji alconite guides increase the rod’s smoothness and durability
- Battalion II has Fuji reel seats that provide comfort and reduce fatigue when fishing
- With the rubber shrink tube handles, the rod allows you to angle from the hook link
- The rod has a secure grip both when wet and dry
- The Penn battalion II is suitable for casting
- There is a manufacturer warranty on the rod
Cons
- The rod is stiff
3
St. Croix Rods Legend Surf Casting Rod
The St. Croix legend surf is a medium power surf fishing rod with moderate fast action. The rod gives you lift and allow you to cast longer distances. With its blend material, the rod is versatile and sensitive. The legend surf is suitable for spin fishing, and it has a tension level of eight pounds.
A feature of the legend surf is its advanced reinforcing technology (ART) that gives the rod an carbon fiber material that provides strength without adding to the blank’s weight or diameter. Also, it allows you to handle the rod with a powerful hook set.
Another feature of the Legend surf is the integrated poly curve (IPC) tooling technology that eliminates all transitional points in the rod’s blank to give a smoother action and increase its strength and sensitivity. Furthermore, the rod’s handle is neoprene, and it has titanium frames. The surf guides are tangle-free, and they provide extraordinary performance.
The rod is also corrosion-proof, and it has a flanged ring that reduces friction. The legend surf has a St. Croix superstar service that provides a 15-year transferable warranty.
Key Features:
- Advanced Reinforcing Technology (ART)
- Integrated Poly Curve (IPC) tooling technology
- Neoprene handle
- Tangle-free surf guides
- Corrosion proof
- Surf top with flanged ring
- St. Croix superstar service
Specification:
- Brand: St. Croix rods
- Material: blend
- Length: 7 feet
- Action: moderate fast
- Power: medium
- Color: Belize blue
- Package Dimensions: 85 × 1.5 × 1.5 in
- Package Weight: 0.25 kg
- Fishing technique: spinning
Pros
- The legend surf has medium power and moderate fast action for an extraordinary performance
- The ART gives rod carbon fiber for improved strength. The carbon fiber does not increase the diameter or weight of the blank. It also allows the rod to handle a powerful hook set
- The rod’s IPC tooling technology eliminates all transitional points in the blank, giving the rod a smoother action while increasing sensitivity and strength
- The rod’s handle is made from neoprene, giving the rod a positive grip that improves when wet
- The surf guides are tangle-free for a smoother operation
- The legend surf is corrosion proof, improving its durability
- The rod has a surf top with a flanged ring that reduces friction
- The St. Croix superstar service provides a 15-year transferable warranty, assuring you of the rod’s performance and durability
- The St. Croix legend surf is ideal for spinning
- The rod is available in four sizes and three styles to suit your preferences
Cons
- Pricey
4
Penn Fishing Squadron III Surf Fishing Rod
The Penn Squadron III is a versatile and affordable surf fishing rod from composite material. The rod features a graphite composite blank that gives it a high sensitivity. Also, with the rubber shrink tube handles, the Squadron III, you can angle from the hook link.
The squadron III is sturdy and virtually indestructible. The rod has stainless steel dura guides that improve its durability. Also, the rod’s grip is made from EVA material to give you a traditional style and feel.
Key Features:
- Graphite composite blank
- Graphite reel seat
- Rubber shrink tube handles
- Stainless steel dura guides
- EVA grips
- Manufacturer warranty
Specification:
- Brand: Penn
- Material: composite
- Length: 9 feet
- Action: moderate fast
- Power: medium
- Color: titanium / red/ gold
- Dimensions: 56 × 3 × 2 in
- Package Weight: 0.34 kg
- Fishing technique: spinning
Pros
- The Penn Squadron III has a composite material. Therefore, it has high sensitivity and increases casting distance
- The graphite composite blank feature further increases the rod’s sensitivity
- The Squadron III has a graphite reel seat. The seat has a metal gear and a solid rod holder that increases the rod’s durability
- The rod has rubber shrink tube handles which are comfortable and allow angling from the hook line
- The rod is versatile and affordable
- The Squadron III has stainless steel dura guides that also contributes to its durability
- The EVA grips on the rod give a traditional feel and style
- With its numerous features, the Squadron III is durable and virtually indestructible
- The Penn Squadron III is ideal for spinning
- The rod comes with a manufacturer warranty
Cons
- The rod is quite stiff
5
Ugly Stik Bigwater Casting Rod
The Ugly Stik bigwater rod is a synthetic surf fishing rod with durable EVA grips. The rod has an Ugly Stik clear tip design that gives the rod extra strength and an Ugly tech design that combines fiberglass and graphite material to provide a highly sensitive and strong fishing rod.
Furthermore, the rod has Ugly tuff stainless steel guides that are one-piece and double footed to give maximum durability and eliminate insert pop-outs. Another feature of the fishing rod is the Pac Bay roller guides that provide the rod with maximum corrosion resistance. The Ugly Stik bigwater rod is tough and dependable, and it comes with a manufacturer warranty.
Key Features:
- Ugly Stik clear tip design
- Ugly tech design
- Ugly tuff stainless steel guides
- EVA grips
- Pac Bay roller guides
- Manufacturer warranty
Specification:
- Brand: Ugly Stik
- Material: Synthetic
- Length: 7 feet
- Power: Medium
- Dimensions: 86 × 5 × 5 in
- Weight: 0.31 kg
- Fishing technique: spinning and casting
Pros
- The rod has extra strength due to its Ugly Stik clear tip design
- The rod is a combination of graphite and fiberglass, making it a strong and sensitive fishing rod
- The Ugly Stik bigwater has maximum durability because of its double footed stainless steel guides. This feature also eliminates pop-outs
- The rod has EVA grips which are durable and comfortable
- The Pac Bay roller guides feature gives the rod a maximum corrosion resistance
- The Ugly Stik bigwater rod is ideal for both spinning and casting
- The rod is tough and dependable
- The Ugly Stik bigwater fishing rod comes with a manufacturer warranty
Cons
- The fishing rod is not so durable
6
Okuma Cedros Surf Saltwater Spinning Rod
The Okuma Cedros Surf is a moderate to fast action fishing rod with 30-ton carbon fiber blanks, increasing ultra sensitivity and responsiveness. The stainless steel guide frame increases the rod’s corrosion resistance. The rod also has exceptional casting distance and a smooth casting stroke. Furthermore, the Cedros Surf is exceptionally comfortable and increases casting distance.
Another feature of the Cedros Surf is its superhard zirconium inserts for braided lines. Furthermore, the rod is durable and comfortable because it has shrink tube grips attached to the reel seat. When you purchase the Cedros Surf, you get a lifetime limited warranty with the product.
Key Features:
- Carbon fiber blanks
- A Stainless steel guide frame
- Custom handle set
- Zirconium inserts
- Shrink tube grips
Specification:
- Brand: Okuma Fishing
- Material: Stainless steel
- Length: 11 feet
- Action: moderately fast
- Power: medium-heavy
- Color: Blue / black
- Package dimensions: 66 × 2.1 × 1.4 in
- Weight: 1 lb.
- Fishing technique: spinning
Pros
- The rod has carbon fiber blanks that increase the rods responsiveness and ultra sensitivity
- The custom handle set is comfortable to use, preventing fatigue
- The Cedros Surf has an exceptional casting distance, giving you a smooth casting stroke
- The stainless steel guide frame is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and it increases casting distance
- The superhard zirconium inserts reduce friction, giving the rod a smooth performance
- The shrink tube grips are tapered to the rod’s reel seats, and they are durable
- The Okuma Cedros Surf rod is ideal for spinning
- The Cedros Surf has a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- None
7
St. Croix Rods Avid Series Surf Fishing Rods
The St. Croix avid series fishing rod is a durable rod with fast action and moderate-high power. The rod has a 15 pounds tension level, and it is best for casting distances. With its premium SCII carbon design, the rod has exceptional strength and durability.
With its integrated poly curve (IPC) technology, the Avid Series rod eliminates transitions in the rod’s blank to give a smoother performance and increase strength and sensitivity. Another notable feature of the Avid Series rod is its advanced reinforcing technology (ART) that reinforces the rod, giving it strength without increasing its weight or diameter.
The Avid Series rod is ideal for maximizing casting distances at different surf angles. Furthermore, the rod has a custom cork taped handle that allows you to maintain a strong grip while providing comfort.
Another feature of the rod is the tangle-free guide that aids a smooth operation and its alconite rings that increase the rod’s durability and smoothness. In addition, the rod’s frame is corrosion resistant, and the Fuji deluxe reel seat provides comfort and reduces fatigue when fishing. A major selling point of the Avid Series is its warranty. The warranty is 15-year transferrable, and St. Croix Superstar Service backs it.
Key Features:
- Premium SCII carbon design
- Integrated Poly Curve (IPC) technology
- Advanced Reinforcing Technology (ART)
- Custom cork taped handle
- Tangle-free guide
- Fuji deluxe reel seat
- Alconite rings
- Corrosion control frames
- Transferrable warranty
Specification:
- Brand: St. Croix Rods
- Material: Blend
- Length: 11 feet
- Action: Fast
- Power: moderate-high
- Color: charcoal
- Dimensions: 132 × 3 × 3 in
- Weight: 0.41 kg
- Fishing technique: Casting
Pros
- The Avid Series rod’s blend material increases its sensitivity and casting distance
- The rod has a tension level of 15 pounds
- The premium SCII carbon design increases the rod’s durability and strength
- The Advanced Reinforcing Technology reinforces the rod with carbon fiber material without increasing its weight or diameter. The reinforcement improves the rod’s strength and allows you to handle a powerful hook set
- The integrated poly curve technology in the rod increases its sensitivity and strength, giving you a smoother operation
- The Avid Series provides maximum casting distance for any surf angle
- The custom cork taped handle improves comfort while maintaining a strong grip
- The rod has a tangle free guide that allows smooth operation
- The alconite rings improve smoothness and durability
- The Fuji deluxe reel seats are comfortable, and they reduce fatigue
- The rod has a corrosion-resistant frame
- The St. Croix Avid Series rod is ideal for casting
- There is a 15-year transferrable warranty on the Avid Series rod
Cons
- None
Buying Guide Questions
Below are answers to questions regarding surf fishing rods. Kindly follow through for more information.
What color line is best for surf fishing?
Although the color of the line for surf fishing does not matter, it can make a difference in catching a sharp-eyed fish. It is advisable to use lines that match the watercolor you are fishing to camouflage the line from the fish. For instance, if you are fishing in emerald-colored water in the gulf regions, it is best to use a green-colored line. Also, for clear water, a monofilament line is good.
What is the best setup for surf fishing?
When surf fishing, you have to set up your line and bait in a natural way such that fishes cannot distinguish between your bait and natural prey. Therefore, the best setup for surf fishing is the fish finder rig. The setup is simple, and it attractively presents the bait, allowing you to catch fish from the shore.
The fish finder rig has a hook tied to a leader and a sliding pyramid sinker connected to the mainline. Also, tie the sinker before the barrel swivel linking the mainline to the leader. The fish finder bait allows the bait to move naturally and freely in water to look like a natural food for predators. Furthermore, the pyramid sinker drags the line to the bottom and forces the leader and bait to bounce with the current, mimicking natural baitfish movement
Is mono or braid better for surf fishing?
Braid and mono are suitable for different fishing conditions. Braid is ideal for difficult surf conditions and choppy weather; it has a small diameter that increases its resistance to wind and current. Also, the braid has a high sensitivity that facilitates bite detection and hooks setting.
Mono, on the other hand, is abrasion-resistant. It is most suitable for rocky structures and when targeting sharp-toothed fishes. Furthermore, mono has a high stretching quality that provides a safety cushion, especially when targeting large fish. Therefore, mono is ideal for beginner anglers.
Do longer rods cast further?
Rod length affects the casting distance. Longer rods that are beyond 7 feet are cast further than shorter rods with similar power and action. However, shorter rods that are below 7 feet are more accurate.
Does line color matter for surf fishing?
Yes. It is best to use fishing lines that match watercolor to camouflage the line from your target fishes.
How do I choose a surf fishing rod?
Choosing surf fishing rods is entirely dependent on the usage. If you intend to use your rod for live bait fishing, it is best to go for rods with medium-fast action and reasonably stiff tip. These features are ideal because live bait fishing requires heavy sinkers and live bait. Also, avoid rods with soft tips because they bend a lot and reduce casting distance.
If the purpose of your surf rod is for casting lures, then going for a medium-fast to fast action rod is ideal. Rods with faster actions deliver a tip speed that can whip smaller lures for longer distances.
Can I use a 7-foot rod for surf fishing?
Yes, you can. A 7-foot rod is ideal for catching fish in the troughs a few feet away from the beach
What Tackle do I need for surf fishing?
Spinning tackle is the best for surf fishing. Learning its use is easy, making it ideal for beginner anglers. Also, the tackle is versatile. It is also easy to rinse, especially when the rod falls.
Can fish really see a braided line?
Yes. Fishes can see a braided line. Therefore, you’ll want to use a monofilament or fluorocarbon leader to limit your bait’s visibility
Conclusion
Surf fishing allows you to catch big fish and even sharks in the surf. It would be best if you had equipment like surf fishing rods for an enjoyable fishing experience. When purchasing a surf fishing rod, it is best to note the rod’s power, length, action, and material before purchase.
This article discusses the best surf fishing rods on the market. Although most surf fishing rods come with a warranty, it is best to maintain them properly. Proper maintenance of your surf fishing rods can improve their durability, giving you value for money.
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