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
KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo, High Performance Spinning & Baitcaster Combo, IM6...
*Exceptional Spinning & Baitcasting Reels – Fish like a gladiator! KastKing Crixus fishing reels feature lightweight, carbon infused frames, CNC aluminum spools, 7+1 double shielded stainless ball...
Fishing Rod and Reel Combo - 6ft 2-Piece Breakline Series Spin Cast Spinning Reel and Fiberglass...
LIGHTWEIGHT FISHING ROD - The 6-foot-long fiberglass fishing pole is just the right size and weight for smaller hands to carry and maneuver. This ultra light fishing rod and reel combo is sure to...
Ugly Stik GX2 Spinning Reel and 6'6" Fishing Rod Combo Travel Kit, Includes Cloth Travel Bag...
UGLY STIK 6'6" GX2 SPINNING FISHING ROD AND REEL COMBO: The next-gen Ugly Stik, featuring better balance and improved components. From the makers of the #1 rod series in the world. Includes cloth rod...
Sougayilang Baitfeeder Combo Surf Fishing Rod Combo Medium/Heavy 3 Piece Travel Spinning Rod with...
Sougayilang Baitfeeder Combo Surf Fishing Rod Combo Medium/Heavy 3 Piece Travel Spinning Rod with 4000 Size Reel (10') * High-quality Guides: Stainless steel guides with ceramic inserts make it more...
Ugly Stik 7' Carbon Inshore Spinning Rod and Penn Pursuit IV Reel Combo, 50 Size Reel, 1 Piece...
UGLY STIK CARBON WALLEYE 7' SPINNING ROD AND REEL COMBO: Delivers the same trusted Ugly Stik toughness with precision action tailored for inshore fishing applications. * SIZE 50 FISHING REEL: Matched...
Ugly Stik 7' Carbon Inshore Spinning Rod and Penn Pursuit IV Reel Combo, 25 Size Reel, 1 Piece...
UGLY STIK CARBON INSHORE 7' SPINNING ROD AND REEL COMBO: Delivers the same trusted Ugly Stik toughness with precision action tailored for inshore fishing applications. * SIZE 25 FISHING REEL: Matched...
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</strongLine varieties in terms of materials. Monofilament nylon is a great choice for new anglers, as it is fairly cheap, knots well, and has an inherent stretch, which is a great attribute for surf fishermen who are developing their skills.
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...
Seaguar Red Label 100% Fluorocarbon Fishing Line 12lbs, 200yds, Clear - 12RM200
SEAGUAR RED LABEL: Our Red Label Fishing Line is ideal for use as a freshwater main line with superior knot and tensile strength and nearly invisible. * 100% FLUOROCARBON: Only Seaguar makes its own...
KastKing Superpower Braided Fishing Line,Low-Vis Gray,20 LB,327 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. * Low memory - helps...
KastKing Superpower Braided Fishing Line,Low-Vis Gray,30 LB,327 Yds
Strong knot strength - dynamically incorporated strands in Casting Superpower braided lines allow you to easily tie a more solid knot; you can even tie an improved clinch knot. * Low memory - helps...
Reaction Tackle Braided Fishing Line Blue Camo 30LB 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 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...
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:
【SURF FISHING TACKLE KIT】 Includes 12pcs fishing leader rigs, 4pcs pyramid sinkers (1/2/3/4oz), 1pc bass casting sinker, 10pcs circle hooks * 【PYRAMID SINKERS】 with a pyramid shape that...
FIELD TESTED HI/LOW FISHING FLOAT RIGS: Made for Surf Fishing enthusiasts of all levels. From beginners to pros, these rigs make fishing easy and enjoyable. XFISHMAN Surf Fishing Rigs can be used...
FIELD TESTED HI/LOW FISHING FLOAT RIGS: Made for Surf Fishing enthusiasts of all levels. From beginners to pros, these rigs make fishing easy and enjoyable. XFISHMAN Surf Fishing Rigs can be used...
FIELD TESTED HI/LOW FISHING FLOAT RIGS: Made for Surf Fishing enthusiasts of all levels. From beginners to pros, these rigs make fishing easy and enjoyable. XFISHMAN Surf Fishing Rigs can be used...
Dovesun Pompano Rigs for Surf Fishing Rigs Unique T-Knot Pompano Rigs Saltwater Floats Strong...
HAND-TIED UNIQUE INNOVATION DURABLE T-KNOT: Dovesun Original double-line T-knot is Hand-Tied by professional men. Different from the Traditional "T" knot, our unique innovation T-knot reduces line...
Dovesun Fish Finder Rig with Float 20.5" Surf Fishing Rigs 90LB Surf Fishing Tackle for Shark...
STABLE & NATURAL SURF FISHING RIG-FISH FINDER RIG: The fish finder rig is one of the best surf fishing rigs, especially if you are surf fishing or using live bait! The fish finder rig Resists Wind...
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:
Berkley Spiral Rod Holder , Red
BERKLEY SPIRAL ROD HOLDER: A simple and effective way to free your hands and secure your rods while fishing on the bank. Holds most rods. * DEPENDABLE & DURABLE: Made of high-quality powder-coated...
attwood 12708-2 PVC Rod Holder Storage, White PVC Construction, 9 Inches Long, Holds Rod Grips Up...
Conveniently and securely holds rod grip sizes up to 1 ¾ inches in diameter * Keeps rod ready when needed while minimizing onboard clutter * Rugged, durable white PVC construction * Features side...
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
4 Pack 27in Sand Spike PVC Tubular Sand Spike Fishing Rod Holder for Surf Fishing for Beaches...
【Complete 4-Pack for Group Fishing】This tubular sand spikes set includes four holders, each measuring 26.9 x 2.3 inches. Compatible with surf, casting, and spinning rods, this pvc sand spike surf...
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.
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...
CWSDXM Triangle Fishing Weights 4-Sided Pyramid Sinkers Lead Fishing Weights and Sinkers for...
Pyramid Fishing Sinkers are the most common type of sinkers used for pier fishing and surf fishing.They embed well into the sand for an ideal fix. * The pyramid lead sinker is made of high-quality...
PyraPyramid Sinkers Assortment for Surf Fishing & Catfishing - Durable Lead Fishing Weights 1oz...
Versatile Assortment Design: 10-pack with 1oz (3pcs), 2oz (3pcs), 3oz (2pcs), 4oz (2pcs) offers flexible weights for various depths and fish. Solves single-size issues for surf and river fishing. ...
Hfuiqau 1oz (12pcs) Pyramid Sinkers Fishing and Fishing Weights for Light Surf Fishing and...
【Fast Sink & Steady Hold in Light Currents】The triangular design sinks quickly and anchors firmly into sand or mud bottoms, keeping bait steady in light surf or calm river conditions. The...
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:
Sea Striker Deluxe Surf, Pier 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 54 quart coolers. Get this adventure filled piece of equipment that includes a frame...
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...
Polar Aurora Fishing Cart Beach Cart Collapsible Wagon w/11'' All-Terrain Wheels for Sand, Heavy...
[High-quality Strong Steel] The whole body of this heavy-duty foldable fishing cart is made of thickened top grade featured selected steel, which greatly improves the strength, extends the service...
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...
VEVOR Fishing Cart, 300 lbs Load Capacity, Foldable Fish and Marine Cart with Four 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
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 Canyon II Breathable Waterproof Stockingfoot Fishing Chest Wader for Fishing, Gray...
WATERPROOF and BREATHABLE – 4-ply Nylon Upper constructed with DRIPORE Gen 2 material. Breathable, lightweight, abrasion-resistant, 100% waterproof * NEOPRENE BOOTIES – 4mm Waterproof, double...
Foxelli Chest Waders - 2-ply Nylon/PVC Waterproof Lightweight Fishing Waders for Men & Women with...
Waterproof 2-Ply Nylon/PVC – Seam-sealed 100% waterproof construction with heat-welded, glued, double-stitched & taped seams blocks every leak, keeping you bone-dry all day. * Lightweight Boot-Foot...
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...
Fishing Wading Belt Rod Holder Adjustable Wader Waist Belt for Fly Surf Casting Spinning Pole...
【Good Helper】Free your hands for releasing the fish, tying baits or using hands for other things while fishing. An ultralight fishing belt is a better organization of necessary fishing tools...
Gonex Chest Waders for Men Women Waterproof 2-Ply Nylon/PVC Waders for Fishing Duck Hunting with...
Lightweight & Comfortable: Gonex chest waders are designed to be 35% lighter than traditional rubber waders, due to the dual-layers construction of 70D nylon & PVC. This lightweight design ensures...
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.
Berkley Gulp! Ghost Shrimp Chartreuse Belly, 3-Inch
Lifelike detail imitates natural prey * Replacement for hard to find and hard to catch ghost shrimp * More colors and better durability than live * This berkley Gulp saltwater ghost shrimp bait...
Yo-Zuri 3D Inshore Twitchbait Slow Sinking Lure, Mullet, 90mm/3-1/2
All new flat sided lipless twitch bait with internal 3D prism finish * Perfectly balanced for quick starting action * Saltwater grade hooks and split rings * Inner hologram Sheet * Quick response by...
Facikono Lures for Bass Jig Head Soft Swimbait, 6-Pack 6 Colors Plastic Bait for...
Soft Swimbaits: Made of environmental friendly quality soft plastic, jig head fishing lures are soft, light but durable with fishy smell to attract freshwater / saltwater fishes. * Lifelike Culter...
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...
Navicatch Saltwater Fishing Lures Fishing Jigs Fishing Spoons for Striped bass, Pompano, Spanish...
Realistic Baitfish Design with Detailed Scales: Designed to Mimic Atlantic Silverside – Attracts predatory fish like striped bass and bluefish.This Fishing Casting Jig is meticulously designed to...
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.
Piscifun Fishing Pliers Aluminum Split Ring Pliers with Tungsten Carbide Braid Cutters, Hook Remover, Saltwater Fishing Tool with Sheath & 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.
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.
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 Buchanan Polarized Sunglasses for Men, Women, Fishing, Boating, Outdoor Sports, 100% UV Protection
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.
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Owned by Garry Oliver, the proprietor of the Outer Banks Fishing Pier, this small wooden aqua blue-colored store on the Nags Head-Manteo causeway has been serving the needs of fishermen for decades. A full line of tackle is available for all types...
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