Once you have your coastal recreational fishing license in hand, it’s time to start thinking about gear. Anglers will find tons of options when it comes to equipment for casting into the surf, from custom designed rods and reels at local tackle shops, to name brand varieties that are designed for multiple areas along the coastline.
Here are just a few of the most popular gear options for surf fishermen. Keep in mind that there are endless options available, and your local bait and tackle store staff will be happy to point you in the right direction if you have any questions about what you’ll need for successful surf fishing in any given area along the North Carolina coastline.
We were not provided with free or discounted products to review. These recommendations were not influenced by manufacturers. We did, however, heavily consider customer reviews at retail websites when deciding which products to feature. We like these products, but we took care to make sure other customers agree. Some of the product links include affiliate codes. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Surf Fishing Rods
Rods can be purchased separately, or as a rod and reel combo. Though the length can vary by beach and surf conditions, local anglers traditionally recommend using an 8′ to 16′ light to medium surf type rod, which can adapt to most conditions and most species. Keep in mind that the rod you choose has a lot to do with your physical size – some rods are heavy, and can tire out an angler quickly after multiple casts.
A Sample of Top Rated Rod & Reel Combos
Ugly Stik 7’ Complete Saltwater Kit Fishing Rod and Reel Spinning Combo, Ugly Tech Construction...
UGLY STIK 7’ COMPLETE SALTWATER SPINNING COMBO: Includes 9 pieces of Saltwater tackle to catch multiple Saltwater Species: 20lb. mono double hook bottom rig (2), 3oz. pyramid sinker (2) and 3/0...
PENN Squadron III 8’ Surf Spinning Fishing Rod; 2-Piece, 12-20lb Line Rating, Medium Rod Power...
PENN SQUADRON II 8’ SPINNING ROD: Built for versatility and dependability. Surf spinning rod with premium hardware and two-piece graphite construction. * 12-20LB LINE RATING, MEDIUM POWER: Moderate...
PENN 10’ Pursuit IV 2-Piece Fishing Rod and Reel (Size 4000) Surf Spinning Combos, 10’, 2...
PENN PURSUIT IV 10’ FISHING ROD AND REEL SPINNING COMBO: A battle-tested and durable fish-taming kit for saltwater anglers. * LIGHTWEIGHT AND DEPENDABLE: 2-piece, Graphite Composite rod blank with...
PENN 9’ Pursuit IV 2-Piece Fishing Rod and Reel (Size 4000) Surf Spinning Combos, 9’, 2...
PENN PURSUIT IV 9’ FISHING ROD AND REEL SPINNING COMBO: A battle-tested and durable fish-taming kit for saltwater anglers. * LIGHTWEIGHT AND DEPENDABLE: 2-piece, Graphite Composite rod blank with...
Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo, Black/Red/Yellow
Ugly Tech Construction * Ugly Stik Clear Tip * Ugly Tuff Guides * Fuji Reel Seat * Durable Rubber Gimbal (select models)
Shakespeare Tiger Surf Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo with Bottom Float Rig, 9' 2-Piece...
SHAKESPEARE TIGER SPINNING SURF MOSSY OAK KIT: An action-ready combination, the Shakespeare Spinning Surf Mossy Oak Combo is an ideal choice for a wide variety of game fish. Includes a 3-piece bottom...
Your line will literally make or break your ability to reel in a catch. Look for 20-25 test line for the best results in all conditions, and go for Nylon Monofilament, Fluorocarbon, or Braided
Surf Fishing Line
A Sample of Top Rated Saltwater Fishing Lines Berkley Trilene® Big Game™, Clear, 20lb | 9kg, 650yd | 594m Monofilament Fishing Line, Suitable... BERKLEY TRILENE BIG GAME: Don't let fish off the hook. This heavy duty fishing line was designed to deliver incredible durability, reliability, and value. * EXTREME FIGHTING POWER: This mono fishing... Reaction Tackle Braided Fishing Line Blue Camo 10LB 150yd STRONG: This premium braided fishing line from Reaction Tackle is engineered from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, one of the strongest woven fibers on earth; This braided line is designed... Reaction Tackle Braided Fishing Line Blue Camo 20LB 300yd STRONG: This premium braided fishing line from Reaction Tackle is engineered from ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, one of the strongest woven fibers on earth; This braided line is designed... Beyond Braid Blue Wave 300 Yards 30lb CAST FURTHER & LASTS LONGER- Beyond Braid has a smooth fluoropolymer coating that allows for more efficient casts and longer distances every time. A thinner diameter slices through your guides and... KastKing Superpower Braided Fishing Line, Gray, 20 LB, 150 Yds Strong Knot Strength - Dynamically incorporated strands in KastKing SuperPower Braided Lines allow you to easily tie a more solid knot; you can even tie an improved clinch knot. The special...
Rigs for Surf Fishing
Like all gear designed for surf fishing, when it comes to rigs and rig set-ups, there are a lot of options, which generally depend on the fish you are targeting, the season, and other conditions and factors that change depending on where along the North Carolina coastline you land. In fact, there is likely a unique and distinct type of rig available for every species of fish, and every type of body of saltwater.
Some experienced anglers attest that the best set-up for beginners is likely a basic two-hook leader with 3-4 ounce pyramid sinker and Khale hooks, which are adaptable for virtually all water conditions and types of fish. In addition, you can opt for the three following popular surf fishing rigs:
Fishing Leader Catfish High Low Rig Bottom Rigs Surf, Double Drop Wire Leader with Snap Swivel...
Fishing Rig, Test:25 KG or 50 pounds,The Eagle Claw Snelled Bottom Rig features an interlocking snap, red beads with spreader arms, and many other loaded features that will help you catch more...
SURF FISHING TACKLE: Includes 12pcs fishing leaders, 4pcs pyramid sinker weight, 1pc bass casting sinker * HIGH QUALITY: All of the surf fishing tackle kit are made with the high quality material...
Rod holders
Sand spike and other varieties of rod holders will hold your rod in place when you need a break, or just want to enjoy a little downtime relaxing on the beach. This piece of equipment comes in a variety of different materials – such as PVC or aluminum – as well as different lengths, and different price ranges. Rod holders that are made of PVC or ABS plastic are traditionally the least expensive, but if you’re in rough ocean conditions and do a lot of surf fishing, upgrading to a more durable metal rod holder may be your best rouet.
A sample of popular models for sand spike rod holders:
The Beast Sand Spike Rod Holder / 57 inches/Aluminum/Stainless Steel Hardware
Inside diameter 1.65”, 2” angle, 1/8” thick, 57”, plastic reel protector. * 100% Aluminum with stainless steel hardware. * Knee plate is great for pushing the Beast deep into beach sand.
Automatic Double Spring Fishing Rod Holder, Stainless Steel for Bank Ground Support Brackets...
【Full Auto】Shackcom auto spring rod holder sensitively detects the fish bites lures, in the meanwhile, the fishing rod holder automatically pull up the fishing pole immediately. You just only...
4 Pack Fishing Rod Stand and Alarm - Reinforced PVC, Supports Bank, Beach and Ground Fishing
HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS：Reinforced PVC has high hardness and high toughness, and it will not wear the fishing rod as easily as metal materials；Tthe tapered shape drill rod made of Galvanized steel...
Brocraft Surf Rod Holder with Cup Holder and Sand Spike for Fishing
Heavy-Duty Construction – Made from marine-grade anodized aluminum, this surf rod holder is corrosion-resistant and built to withstand saltwater fishing conditions. * Convenient Built-in Cup Holder...
Adjustable Sand Spike Rod Holder, Sand Spike for Surf Fishing-Great for surf, Bank, Beach Fishing...
Heavy Duty Plastic Material
DGOL 2 Packs 304 Stainless Steel Fishing Rod Holders for Bank Fishing, Cute Design Sand or Gound...
All parts are made of 304 stainless steel, much stronger than plastic material * The tubes are polished and welded with screws at the bottom. These are Shinning and smooth rod holder tubes * Size...
Pyramid weights
A pyramid weight is often the preferred weight for surf fishermen, as it can stand up to currents and hold at the bottom. A roughly 2 oz. to 4 oz. pyramid weight should hold strong in most ocean conditions, when used in conjunction with a surf rod. If it’s a rough day, or you are fishing on a beach with large breakers close to the shore, up the weight a bit to hold strong in the surf.
OROOTL Pyramid Sinkers Fishing Weights Kit 1oz-8oz Bullet Fishing Sinkers Weights Surf Fishing...
【Pyramid Design】OROOTL pyramid sinkers fishing weights stand firmly in strong waves and sandy bottoms, the fishing weights also drop to the bottom quickly due to pyramid design * 【Hold...
Pyramid Sinkers are triangular in shape and are excellent for surf fishing and pier fishing. They hold well in sandy bottoms, and also hold well in rough currents like the surf. Great for saltwater...
Pyramid fishing weights are triangular in shape and are excellent for surf fishing and pier fishing. They hold well in sandy bottoms, and also hold well in rough currents like the surf * Pyramid...
Pyramid fishing weights are triangular in shape and are excellent for surf fishing and pier fishing. They hold well in sandy bottoms, and also hold well in rough currents like the surf * Pyramid...
【Precise 1oz Weights, 10-Pack Value】 Get 10 precisely crafted 1oz (28g) pyramid sinkers in one value pack. The classic shape and accurate weight ensure consistent performance. This bulk set...
Firm Stand:Our fishing sinkers are designed with a pyramid shape, providing a stable and secure hold even in strong waves and sandy bottoms. This ensures that your fishing gear stays in place...
Cart
A cart will make a surf fisherman’s life infinitely easier when heading to and from the beach. Built to be pulled across the sand with ease, and large enough to hold all the essential equipment and then some, a beach cart is a great way to pack and tote along all the equipment you’ll need for a full day on the sand.
Look for carts that can hold a lot of weight – you may be bringing back plenty of big catches, after all – as well as carts that have larger than normal, sturdy wheels. Larger wheels will essentially transform a standard cart into a 4WD mode of transportation that can easily haul your supplies across soft sand.
A sample of popular models for surf fishing carts:
Anglers Fish-N-Mate 310 Sr Fishing Cart with Poly Wheels
Detachable Handle * Poly Wheel Tires * Food Grade Cutting Board with Removable Bait Bucket * Stabilizer Legs * Vinyl Rod Tube Covers
Gorilla Carts Poly Outdoor Fish & Marine Cart, 5 Cu Ft Capacity, 200 lb Load Rating – Heavy-Duty...
HEAVY-DUTY CART: Poly fishing and marine utility cart wagon with 200-pound capacity for maneuvering heavy fishing gear, picnic supplies, or sporting equipment; Overall cart height of 24.75 inches ...
Sea Striker Balloon Tire Surf and Beach Cart - Outdoor Fishing Rolling Wheel Wagon
Surf Cart: This all-around, versatile cart has a heavy-duty frame and comes with the capability to hold up to MOST 55-quart coolers. Carry up to 125 lbs. of beach items and surf fishing equipment to...
Angler's Fish-N-Mate 839 4 Wheel Fishing Cart with Poly Tires
All Purpose Utility Cart * Lightweight and strong frame constructed of T-5 Aluminum tubing * Corrosion Resistant * 8 rod tubes
VEVOR Beach Fishing Cart, 300 lbs Load Capacity, Fish and Marine Cart with Two 13" Big Wheels PU...
Sturdy Frame: Meet the VEVOR beach fishing cart, crafted with high-grade aluminum for a frame that's not just tough but also rust-resistant. It's like having a reliable fishing buddy who never lets...
VEVOR Beach Fishing Cart, 200 lbs Load Capacity, Fish and Marine Cart with Two 11" Big Wheels...
Sturdy Frame: Meet the VEVOR beach fishing cart, crafted with high-grade steel for a frame that's not just tough but also rust-resistant. It's like having a reliable fishing buddy who never lets you...
Waders
If you want a longer cast, and you prefer to fish in colder or cooler weather, waders will be your best friend. Waders are effectively worn like overalls, protecting the lower 3/4th of your body from water inundation when you wade out to the surf to cast.
Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to waders! Inexpensive varieties can leak, which can turn a great fishing day into a bad one fairly quickly.
A sample of popular models for surf fishing waders
FROGG TOGGS Hellbender Breathable Waterproof Stockingfoot Fishing Chest Wader for Fishing...
WATERPROOF and BREATHABLE – 4-ply Nylon Upper constructed with DRIPORE Gen 2 material. Breathable, lightweight, abrasion-resistant, 100% waterproof * NEOPRENE BOOTIES – 4mm Waterproof, double...
TIDEWE Bootfoot Chest Wader, 2-Ply Nylon/PVC Waterproof Fishing & Hunting Waders with Boot Hanger...
【Attention】Please Match the size selection to your Normal Shoe Size. If your Feet are Wide or you need to wear Thick Socks, please Choose ONE SIZE LARGER than usual * 【Lightweight】The waders...
TIDEWE Bootfoot Chest Wader, 2-Ply Nylon/PVC Waterproof Fishing & Hunting Waders with Boot Hanger...
【Attention】Please Match the size selection to your Normal Shoe Size. If your Feet are Wide or you need to wear Thick Socks, please Choose ONE SIZE LARGER than usual * 【Lightweight】The waders...
FROGG TOGGS Mens Canyon II Breathable Stockingfoot Chest Wader, Gray, Large US
WATERPROOF and BREATHABLE – 4-ply Nylon Upper constructed with DRIPORE Gen 2 material. Breathable, lightweight, abrasion-resistant, 100% waterproof * NEOPRENE BOOTIES – 4mm Waterproof, double...
TIDEWE Bootfoot Chest Wader, 2-Ply Nylon/PVC Waterproof Fishing & Hunting Waders with Boot Hanger...
【Attention】Please Match the size selection to your Normal Shoe Size. If your Feet are Wide or you need to wear Thick Socks, please Choose ONE SIZE LARGER than usual * 【Lightweight】The waders...
FROGG TOGGS Aransas II Neoprene Surf & Sand Wading Boot
WADING BOOT with TRACTION – 5mm Neoprene shell coupled with a durable one piece rubber athletic outsole with cleated outsole for reliable traction * DURABLE PROTECTION – Reinforced toe and heel...
Bait and Lures
One of the hardest decisions for surf fishermen is what type of bait, or artificial lure, to use for the best results. Many local tackle shops can direct new anglers in the right direction when it comes to what’s biting, and what bait or lures to use, but here’s a closer look at some of the most popular varieties for fishing along coastal North Carolina.
Bait
- Shrimp – Virtually all saltwater species are attracted to shrimp, which is why it’s found in just about every bait and tackle store up and down the North Carolina coastline. Fresh shrimp is generally preferred over frozen if you can find it, and it’s recommended that you remove the head, cut the shrimp into 3-4 bite-sized pieces if desired, and hook the shrimp through the dorsal back so that it stays securely on the hook.
- Sand Fleas – Sand fleas are a great (and effective) on-the-spot option when surf fishermen are out of bait, or out of money. In the summer months, sand fleas can often be obtained by digging through the sand close to the ocean wash. Able to attract a wide array of species, sand fleas can also be purchased at bait and tackle stores when they aren’t plentiful along the shoreline.
- Mullet – Cut mullet is another catch-all bait that can attract a wide array of species. Discard the tail, and cut into small chunks for the best results. Small bait mullet can also be caught for free in area sounds, saltwater canals, marshes, and other calm salty waters with a bucket or a cast net.
- Menhaden – Menhaden is a cut-bait fish that is popular with bluefish, sea trout, and striped bass – some of the most prevalent species along the North Carolina coastline. Most bait shops will have menhaden available, which can be easily cut and hooked.
- Squid – Squid is a frequent option at North Carolina bait shops, as it works well with saltwater species of all varieties, and of all sizes. Use whole smaller squids for targeting the big fish, or cut up squid into smaller piece.
- Clams and Oysters – Though tricky to hook, clams and oysters can attract a wide array of species. Just be sure and stock up – it’s easy for this bait to slide off a hook in rougher ocean conditions.
- Bloodworms or ragworms – Bloodworms are also available in most all North Carolina bait and tackle stores, as they work well in all conditions, for all types of fish. (They’re also nicely inexpensive!) Best of all, bloodworms can be used for surf fishing, as well as targeting inland streams, canals, and sound waters throughout the coastline.
Lures
When it comes to lures, there are plenty of options, and what an angler uses is all dependent on where they are headed, and what they are targeting. Bait and tackle store will provide the best recommendations for lures to use for specific species, weather conditions, and seasons, but there are a few popular varieties to try that can work in most any coastal fishing environment.
Here are some of the most popular types of lures for saltwater fishing.
Goture Soft Lures Shrimp Bait Set, Freshwater/Saltwater, Trout Bass Salmon, 12 Piece
Premium quality: Soft lures shrimp bait set made with premium high quality plastic soft, flexible * Life like: Soft lures shrimp bait with a realistic design and makes it hard to resist for fish ...
TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax, Magic Noisy Turbulent Wiggling and Vibrating Actions for More Bites...
8 SEGMENTS LIFELIKE LURES: Designed with 8 segment multi-jointed body, TRUSCEND fishing lure can sink slowly and move flexible in water. In addition, life-like swimming actions make it attracting...
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Jighead Lures Paddle Tail Swimbaits Soft Fishing Baits...
WIDELY FISHING SPECIES - Using Japan material, the freshwater fishing lures is the perfect size at 3.5in, which ready to take on multiple hits. Whether you are fishing reefs, estuaries, rivers, fresh...
Heddon Saltwater Super Spook Jr - 3 Pack PK3X9236-2,Multi,One Size
The three choices are the top purchased colors among the Heddon Saltwater family Bone, Black Shiner, and Red Head Holographic; Gives inshore anglers three options of the Super Spook Jr to solve the...
Each set includes 5pcs of 30g/1.05oz fishing spoons in 5 different colors, providing options and variety for your fishing adventures. * Tripquips Saltwater Jigs Fishing Lures are perfect for...
Complete Fishing Tool Combo: The KastKing SteelStream 6 piece Tool Combo includes essential fishing tools for a seamless fishing experience * High-Quality Materials: Crafted with precision, the combo...
Other Gear You’ll Need for Surf Fishing
In addition to all of the above essentials, there are some other tools you’ll need to bring along to ensure you have everything you need for a full day (or night) of surf fishing along the North Carolina coastline. Available at bait and tackle stores, sporting goods stores, and even traditional beach shops or grocery stores, look for these items that will make it easier to spend long hours on the beach.
Plano Z-Series 3700 Tackle Bag, Gray, PVC Fabric with Waterproof and Non-Skid Base, Includes 2 3700 StowAway Utility Boxes, Soft Fishing Tackle Storage Bag
Anglers can opt for a traditional tackle box that holds all their lines, lures, hooks, weights, and other small pieces of gear, or can use a surf bag, which is a little more lightweight and easier to carry when your hands are already full. Look for surf bags that are waterproof with multiple compartments for organized surf fishing.
$106.47 
Piscifun Fishing Pliers, Saltwater Fishing Pliers with Split Ring, Fish Hook Remover, Corrosion Resistance Fly Fishing Pliers with Braid Cutters, Sheath and Lanyard, Fishing Gear Gifts for Men, Black
Pliers will help you remove hooks from your catches, but it’s helpful to find a pair that is both small and waterproof. Shop for titanium pliers which can withstand the effects of saltwater for years to come.
$16.99
KastKing Speed Demon Pro Fillet Knife - Razor Sharp G4116 German Stainless-Steel Blade, Professional Level Knives for Filleting and Boning, Non-Slip Handles, Includes Protective Sheath
A small knife will help you cut bait, lines, and any other equipment that you’ll require for a day of fishing. Like all surf fishing tools, waterproof is key, or at the very least, look for smaller knives that come with a waterproof case.
$21.99
VIMOV Saltwater Fishing Pliers (2 Pack), Stainless Steel Plating Titanium Multi Tool (Hook Remover, Braid Line Cutter, Split Ring Opener) for Saltwater Angling, Kayak and Boating
There are a number of modern surf fishing tools that act like a Swiss army knife, and can perform a lot of functions all at once. A multi-use tool is a great option for anglers who don’t want to lug around extra equipment, and who would prefer to stick to the bare minimum of stuff to pack and carry along when it comes to gear.
Flying Fisherman Polarized Sunglasses with 100% UVA & UVB Protection for Fishing, Biking, Golf, Hiking, Beach, Driving – BUCHANAN, Gunmetal Frames with Copper Tinted Lenses (7719GC)
Sunglasses are a must on hot and sunny days along the North Carolina coastline, and a polarized pair of sunglasses will help you see clearly through the water – often even better than with the naked eye! Costa is a popular brand for surf fishermen, as their sunglasses are durable, polarized, and are designed to stand up to the salt air.
$26.96
The Outer Banks is rich in history, from the early explorers who first set foot on its shores 400 years ago to the groundbreaking first flight that launched modern aviation. Every community has a story and a resonant heritage, and as a result, the...
Since 2005, Outer Banks Blue has delivered exceptional vacations for OBX visitors. Our family-owned and locally managed rental company focuses on service and promises “a relaxing experience with a local touch.” Turn your dream vacation...
Take a day trip or an afternoon off the beach to explore the heart of Historic Corolla Park, and you’ll find one of the Outer Banks’ newest and most noteworthy attractions, the Currituck Maritime Museum.
Gray’s Outer Banks Lifestyle Clothing Company offers the absolute best in Outer Banks T-shirts and Sweatshirts including Champion, Under Armour with "Outer Banks” and Gear! We carry quality fashions and accessories for the whole family...
On the Outer Banks, it's easy to throw in a little education in with a vacation filled with fun, adventures, and new explorations.
Best Pizza in in Corolla since 1995! Cosmo’s Pizzeria has continued to be a family favorite on the northern Outer Banks for over 15 years. Outdoor dining, full bar, and specialty menu (including gluten-free pizza) are a few of our many...
Since 1968, our family owned and operated company has offered families just like yours a wide selection of Outer Banks vacation rentals in beach communities and towns of Duck, Southern Shores, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head and South Nags...