Surf fishing is one of the most fun and exciting ways to catch fish. The thrill of catching your first fish on the beach may be enough to keep you coming back again and again, but it could also deter you from continuing due to a number of frustrating factors. So how do you become a successful surf angler? It all starts with preparation.Surf fishing can be an uphill task for many new surf anglers for a variety of reasons. First, you’ll need to decide if you’re going to use traditional surf fishing rods or surf spinning rods. Next, you’ll need to choose the best fishing lures that will work best in your area and at the time of year, you plan on going fishing. That’s not even taking into account where you’ll be fishing in relation to the current and whether it will have an effect on your tackle choice.Most anglers are intimidated by the thought of getting started, which is why many beginners give up before they even get started. The truth is, there are many things you should know before heading out for a day of surf fishing. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned surf angler, surf fishing can be a great way to enjoy the sport.But before you head out, it’s important to know a few things about safety, equipment, and techniques. To help simplify things for everyone, we’ve compiled this guide to help explain the basics of this intense sport so that everyone can enjoy it---whether they use a surf rod or a surf spinning rod. We will make sure you’re prepared by telling you everything you need to know before hitting the beach.You’ll find out how to find the best surf fishing spots in Australia, how to choose what surf fishing gear works best for your style of fishing, the best fishing lures to use and where to get them at great prices, and how to prepare for your trip.Koala Outdoor will also help you understand the tackle, rigs, and lures and give some surf fishing tips on what bait to use and where to cast. We will cover the most important things that you need to know about surf fishing before even setting foot on the beach.The world of surf fishing is a lot more than just standing on a beach waiting for a bite-- it's about having fun in an environment that's beautiful in its own right. Once you take advantage of all that nature has to offer, catching fish becomes a natural consequence of doing so!What is surf fishing?As the name implies, surf fishing is fishing done in the surf. It's a very different experience than freshwater fishing or saltwater fishing from a boat. One of the main differences is that you're standing on dry land—on the beach, in the sand. That makes it very different from fishing from shore, or even from a pier, which would both be considered kinds of surf fishing.In the simplest sense, all you need is a rod and reel, a baitcasting reel (the most popular choice), and some line. However, there are also many optional extras that can make your experience more comfortable and enjoyable: waders to keep you dry; neoprene gloves to prevent blisters caused by casting; polarized sunglasses so that you can spot fish in the water; sunblock to protect yourself against harmful UV rays.There are also different species of fish that you could be targeting—striped bass and other game fish are popular choices for surf fishermen; mackerel, pompano, and sharks are also frequently caught by surf fishermen. You usually use lures for surf fishing. Depending on what kind of fish you are trying to catch will determine what kind of rig and reel setup works best for you. The different techniques used for surf fishing include:Bait fishingBait fishing is one of the most common and simplest methods. All you need is a rod, reel, line, and some fresh bait, cut bait, or frozen bait. The most popular fresh baits used are worms, bloodworms, clams, and shrimp. You can either fish from the shore or wade out into the water to fish.Koala Pro Tip: A gutting knife, bucket, rod holder and a bait bucket around your waist should round out the other essential bait items that you may wish to take.Bottom fishingBottom fishing is another common method and is similar to bait fishing, except that you use heavier weights and sinkers to reach the bottom of the water where the fish are. This method is best for fishing in areas with a lot of rocks or coral.Surf castingSurf casting is a technique used to cast your line out into the water. It's a good way to cover a lot of water and find fish that are swimming near the surface. Surf casting is actually a lot like regular casting, but with more emphasis on distance and accuracy to land your bait in the surf.Trolling Trolling is a method used for fishing from a moving boat. You tow a lure or bait behind the boat, and the movement attracts fish.Surf fishing can be a great way to spend a day at the beach. It's a relaxing and enjoyable activity that can also be quite productive if you know what you're doing. With a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you can have a great time surf fishing.So go out and give it a try!What is the difference between surf fishing and beach fishing?Surf fishing is a way to enjoy the outdoors and catch fish all at the same time. It is done by standing on the shoreline or wading into the surf zone with fishing rods and lures. Beach fishing is the act of using a rod and reel from dry land, usually in shallow water, but can also be done from a boat.The main difference between surf and other types of fishing is that surf fishing takes place in the surf zone, which is the area between the high water line and the breaking waves. The type of gear used for surf fishing can vary widely depending on what fish you're trying to catch, but a few common items are wetsuits, boots, gloves, a pole (with the reel), and line, sinkers, swivels, and hooks.Surf anglers often use artificial lures or bait (though some people prefer not to use bait), so the gear they use may be more similar to that of saltwater sport fishers than freshwater sport fishers.Where is the best surf fishing in Australia?Australia has been one of the top destinations for surfing and fishing enthusiasts from around the world. The country has an estimated 10,000 beaches, which are perfect for catching some fish after a morning surf session. With so many beaches to choose from, it's important to know the best fishing spots to hit depending on the type of fishing you're interested in doing.For those looking to catch something other than dolphins and sharks, there are plenty of places to fish off the coast of Australia. The most popular are found in New South Wales. The area is home to many great species of fish, including flounder and flathead.In terms of city locations where these types of fishing typically take place, there's no better spot than Port Stephens. Some common fish that can be caught here include Snapper, Flathead, Salmon, King George Whiting, and Blue Swimmer Crabs. The town features several protected bays that are filled with great marine life.If it's the thrill of reeling in a large catch that drives you, try your luck in The Entrance or Terrigal in New South Wales, or Noosa in Queensland. These are all great spots for catching fish like snapper, jewfish, and tailors.If you are looking for some of the most stunning scenery in addition to some fantastic fishing, then consider going to Cape Liptrap. Common fish found here include Australian Salmon, Bass, Flathead, and Jewfish. The best time to go fishing at either of these locations would be during the summer months when the climate is nice and warm.If you're looking for a bit more excitement when fishing off the coast of Australia, try Coffs Harbour in New South Wales or Port Macquarie in Queensland. More specifically, try visiting these areas during the winter months (June-October). These are known as the "kingfish" season, where these large and popular fish are more active.To increase your odds of finding fish, there are several things you can look for: The sand bar is a critical component to figuring out where fish could be, letting you know whether the fish are behind it chasing bait fish, or closer to the shore. Sand bars will constantly change with the waves and passing storms, but you can locate them by determining where the waves begin to break as they come in.Fishing in the surf can be a great way to enjoy the outdoors, relax, and maybe even catch dinner. With so many great spots around Australia, there's no excuse not to give it a try next time you're Down Under!What is the best time to go surf fishing?The best time to go surf fishing in Australia is from two hours before a high tide until an hour after high tide. This is the best time because the surf will be crashing hard and the fish will be scared out of hiding. The higher the tide, the better for fishing.High tides cause giant waves, which scare fish into the deeper waters. The water gets pushed onto the beach and then forced back out by a wave, forcing all the fish out of their hiding spots and into the open water. Also, it's easier to see at low tide because there's less water; you can see farther into the ocean so it will be easier to spot any fish or other sea life.Koala Pro Tip: Plan to be at the beach at least a couple of hours before high tide, that's usually when the bite is at its best. This means you should head out very early in the morning or a few hours before sunset. Around this time, fish will be feeding on the bait fish that the current brings in, so there are bigger chances that they'll take your offering too.If you're a beginner, it's best to stay close to shore (no farther than 50 feet) so that if something happens (like a shark attack or equipment failure), you'll have shallow water to swim back to safety. If you're more experienced and plan accordingly, it's better to move further out because there will be more fish out past 50 feet and they'll also be bigger than what is generally found closer in.How do I set up surf fishing?Surf fishing can be an uphill task for new surf anglers for different reasons. One of which has to do with equipment. Some basic things you'll need for most types of surf fishing include a rod and reel, line, hooks, sinkers, and bait. A wetsuit or other type of waterproof clothing is also a good idea, as you'll likely be getting wet while fishing. If you're fishing from a pier or jetty, you may also need a landing net.Surf fishing is one of those sports that almost anybody can pick up after giving it a try. However, learning how to surf fish properly isn’t easy — especially since you have to worry about properly setting up all your gear before heading out into rougher water.For example, there are different surf fishing rods depending on what type of fishing you plan on doing (bottom-fishing, casting for pelagic species such as wahoo), what weight rating you need based on wind strength, and more. There are also different surf reel sizes too — each designed for different types of spool capacities, drag power, and more.Different types of surf tackle setups also have their own pros and cons depending on certain situations. There are many ways surf fishermen use artificial lures when going out into deeper waters. Some anglers use traditional surf fishing reels with braided lines, while others prefer spinning reels with monofilament lines instead.Regardless of what type of gear you choose, make sure that you pick up all the appropriate supplies before heading out into the water.Surf fishing rodsIt is usually best to bring a few different surf rods with you to the surf. You will want a heavier rod for catching bigger fish such as snook, and you will also want a lighter surf rod for smaller fish that are easily spooked, such as croakers and speckled trout.A good rule of thumb is to have one or two medium-to-heavy tackle outfits, a medium-to-light outfit, and a light-tackle outfit. The medium-to-heavy outfit should be enough for most shore fishing. The ideal surf fishing rod is going to be a long, quality saltwater fishing rod. While surf rods range from 9 to 14 feet, the bigger the rod, the further the cast. Nonetheless, consider your ability and comfort.Koala Pro Tip: If you're just getting into surf fishing, we recommend bringing multiple surf rods and surf fishing reels with varying action: a light- to medium-action surf fishing rod (perfect for casting lures or bait) and a medium- to medium/heavy-action rod (for larger fish). Make sure to bring a line appropriate for the species of fish that you're most likely to catch. Usually, this will mean braided lines but check local regulations.You'll also need a medium-action spinning rod or a medium-light-action conventional rod are your best bets. With these rods, you'll be able to cast lures, bait, and lightweight jigs with ease while still being able to fight a decent-size fish without it pulling too hard on your arm. A light-action conventional rod is also a good idea—you won't need it when casting heavier baits such as jigs, but it will come in handy when trying to cast lighter lures that are often attached to lighter lines.Surf fishing reelsThe most important part of surf fishing is having the right equipment. You want to be able to cast far and with precision, so you'll want a good-quality conventional or spinning reel. Conventional reels are more difficult to cast but allow for longer casts and hold significantly more lines. Spinning reels are easier to learn but can be slightly limited in their casting distance. It's best to have both types of reels, as each will come in handy for different situations.HooksOnce you have all the necessary surf fishing equipment, it's time to start setting up. If you're using bait, you'll need to attach it to your live bait fishing hook using a knot such as the improved Clinch Knot. Once your bait is secure, you can thread your line through the eye of the hook and tie it to the reel using a knot such as the Palomar Knot.Koala Pro Tip: If you're using circle hooks or Kahle hooks, then you have a little more latitude. The fish are going to hook themselves as long as you've got a few pounds of drag on your surf fishing rod.In addition, a good pair of polarized sunglasses is important, too. Not only will they shield your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they will also help you see your lures in the water more clearly.Remember to wet your line before you cast, as this will help reduce friction and increase your casting distance. Once you've cast your line, you can use a variety of techniques to reel in your fish, depending on what type of fish you're hoping to catch.With a little preparation, you'll be ready to start catching fish in no time. So grab your surf fishing gear and head to the beach for a fun day of surf fishing!What lures are best for beach fishingWhen you're going to be out in the water, it's important to prepare yourself for what you will need. You already know you're going to need a fishing rod and reel, a good pair of boots, and maybe even some sunscreen. What you don't know is how to choose the right fishing lure for your situation.When you’re fishing the surf, jetty, or pier, it is best to go with tried-and-true lures. If you are willing to spend some money on your tackle, though, you can find some high-quality lures that will give you the upper hand over any fish that swims your way. There are many different potential species of fish that you could be targeting. Striped bass and other game fish, for instance.Artificial lures are far more effective than live baits. Though they may cost slightly more than their natural counterparts, they never require any form of maintenance and they never run off while you're reeling in your catch. They also don't get stuck on rocks or reefs (which is an occupational hazard for natural bait), and they're much more attractive to fish because they move around in an animated fashion as opposed to lying limp on the ocean floor.When you look at the lures available, it's easy to be overwhelmed by all the choices. So it's a good idea to just bring along a few different kinds of lures in different sizes that are sure to work. Small plug-style lures that imitate small fish will usually catch something, and if you're lucky, you might even snag yourself a fish that's large enough to make your day.SpoonsFor surf fishing, spoon lures (shaped like a spoon) and plugs (short, bullet-shaped lures) are popular options. Lures with metal lips (a series of small hooks on the end) are also good bets for catching fish. They're called "emery" or "emerald" spoons because of their bright colors and shiny quality.These lures can be fished by casting them out into the water and allowing them to sink slowly to the bottom. When a fish comes along, it'll see your lure and strike at it playfully before grabbing it—that's when you set the hook!SwimbaitsSwimbaits are a good choice for targeting larger fish such as striped bass, bluefish, and redfish. They're usually made of soft plastics and mimic the look and movement of small fish or baitfish.JigsJigs are another good option for targeting larger fish. They're usually made of metal or hard plastic and have a small hook on the end. Jigs can be fished by casting them out into the water and then retrieving them in a jerking motion.PlugsPlugs are another popular choice for beach fishing. They're short, bullet-shaped lures that can be fished in a similar way to spoons. Plugs usually have two or three small hooks sticking out from the body, which help to snag fish when they strike.Koala Pro Tip: Artificial lures can help in a pinch, but most surf fishermen swear by live bait since it's more productive. If you don't want to deal with natural bait,cut bait, you can go for jigs, soft plastic baits, spoons, and topwater poppers . Soft plastics are most handy because they have a strong smell that attracts predators. If you're more into hands-on precision fishing, then jigging around structures will keep you busy.When choosing a lure, it's important to consider the size and type of fish you're hoping to catch. If you're after a big fish, you'll need a larger lure that can withstand being bitten and pulled around. Smaller lures are better for catching smaller fish. And if you're not sure what kind of fish are in the area, it's always a good idea to bring along a variety of lure sizes and styles just in case.It’s worth it to invest in high-quality lures if you have an eye on the prize—a trophy catch. It doesn’t hurt to ask a seasoned angler at your local fishing store or a surfer near the beach where they recommend heading to snag one. They might be able to point out just what kind of lures tend to work best in different seasons and under different circumstances.Can you beach fish with lures?Yes, you can beach fish with lures. Lures come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it's important to choose one that is appropriate for the type of fish you're hoping to catch. Some common lures used for beach fishing include swimbaits, jigs, spoons, and plugs. When choosing a lure, it's also important to consider the size of the fish you're hoping to catch. Bigger lures are better for bigger fish, while smaller lures are better for catching smaller fish.How do you rig a surf fishing lure?There are a few different ways to rig a surf fishing lure, depending on the type of fish you're hoping to catch. For smaller fish, a simple hook and line setup are usually all that's needed. But for larger fish, you'll need a heavier setup that can handle being pulled around. Other popular surf fishing rigs are pompano rigs (good for smaller fish), fireball rigs (great with live bait), and ready rigs (excellent for novices and children).One common way of surf fishing rigs is to use swim bait. Swim baits are usually made of soft plastic and mimic the look and movement of small fish or baitfish. To rig a swim bait, simply thread the line through the bait's head and out the tail. Then, tie a hook to the end of the line and you're ready to go.Another common way of surf fishing rigs is to use a jig. Jigs are usually made of metal or hard plastic and have a small hook on the end. To rig a jig, simply tie the hook to the end of the line and you're ready to go.And finally, another common way to rig a surf fishing lure is to use a spoon. Spoons are usually made of metal or hard plastic and have a concave shape that allows them to flash in the sunlight. To rig a spoon, simply tie the hook to the end of the line and you're ready to go.What is the best surf fishing rig? This is a lot like asking about the best rod or reel. It depends on what you were doing. If you're looking for the big fish, full-size red drum, striped bass, rays, and shark, you need a large fish finder rig. Try a 4 oz sinker and use thick-cut fish for bait. That means something around 2 inches. Try bait like shad, mullet, or something similar. This fish finder rig is ideal for those long casts.Protect your bait from bottom feeders with a float. A 2-inch float a couple of inches from your hook will do the trick. If you're not sure what size float to use, try a smaller one. It's better to have to replace a lost float than lose your bait - and your catch.For smaller fish like flounder, catfish, or trout, you can get away with using a lighter rig. Try a 1/2 oz sinker with smaller bait like shrimp, squid, or bloodworms. This lighter rig is also a good choice if you're fishing in an area with a lot of vegetation.So there you have it, a few different ways to rig a surf fishing lure. Now all you need to do is head to the nearest body of water and try your luck. Good luck!What do I need for surf fishing?Some basic equipment you'll need for surf fishing includes a fishing rod and reel, bait, and lures. A good quality surf fishing rods and reel combo are important for getting the most out of your surf fishing experience. And when it comes to bait, live bait is always best. But if you can't get your hands on live bait, frozen bait will work just as well.As for lures, there are a variety of different types that can be used for surf fishing. Some common choices include swim baits, jigs, and spoons. So whether you're a beginner or a seasoned surf angler, make sure you have the proper equipment before heading out to the surf.ConclusionSurf fishing from the beach is an exciting way to enjoy the outdoors and catch fish in the surf. The awesome feeling of pulling a trophy fish out of the water makes every cast worth it, especially if you are fishing one of the best surf spots in the world.Hopefully, our surf fishing tips can help you. Having ideal gear is crucial for a more thrilling and easier surf fishing experience, particularly as you get acquainted with analyzing the beach along with the most suitable conditions for getting the strikes.Experimentation is the key to success when it comes to finding what works best for a particular location or marina. Getting into shape is an excellent goal but there are times and locations that demand extra preparation. Setting up your surf fishing gear before leaving home will save you precious time and help get you started on the right foot.Just be prepared for anything with your best surf fishing tackle and dress for success!So what are you waiting for? Let’s go fishing!
