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
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...
Ugly Stik Bigwater Fishing Rod & Penn Pursuit IV Spinning Reel Combo, Black/Red/Yellow
HT-100 drag washers provide smooth drag under heavy loads * 4 sealed stainless steel ball bearings * Ugly Tech Construction * Ugly Stik Clear Tip
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)
KastKing Centron Lite Spinning Fishing Reel Combo 7'6" MH 4000 Reel White
Lightweight and Sensitive IM6 Graphite Blanks – Centron Lite Spinning Combos feature a sensitive and light-weight IM6 Graphite blank designed to provide exceptional value and performance for all...
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... SPIDERWIRE STEALTH BRAID: Boasting a versatile combination of durability and smooth operation, this SpiderWire braided fishing line delivers exceptional performance in any situation. * NOTHING GETS... 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 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... YOTO Fishing Leaders,Saltwater Tackle Rig with Swivels Snap, High-Strength Fishing Wire Gear... 2 arm 12pcs white nylon monofilament leaders,main leader test 90lb, arm leader test 55lb, keep hooks free of leader. * When it's time to protect or strengthen your main line, using a steel fishing... Beyond Braid Blue Wave 300 Yards 20lb 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...
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...
YOTO Fishing Leaders,Saltwater Tackle Rig with Swivels Snap, High-Strength Fishing Wire Gear...
2 arm 12pcs white nylon monofilament leaders,main leader test 90lb, arm leader test 55lb, keep hooks free of leader. * When it's time to protect or strengthen your main line, using a steel fishing...
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...
Surf Fishing Tackle Kit Ocean Saltwater Fishing Lures Surf Fishing Gear Fish Finder Rigs Pompano...
【Surf Fishing Kit】Includes almost everything you need for saltwater fishing, from fishing lures to terminal tackle like fishing weights, fishing hooks swivels and beads etc. * 【158pcs Tackle...
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 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...
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...
【High-quality Materials】The fishing rod holder can be easily into the ground stands sturdy and strong. It can be mud, sand, rock cracks, etc. The tapered shape drill rod is made of galvanized...
Adjustable Sand Spike Rod Holder, Sand Spike for Surf Fishing-Great for surf, Bank, Beach Fishing...
Heavy Duty Plastic Material
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 Sinkers Fishing Weights Sinkers Saltwater Surf Fishing Weights Bullet Sinkers for Ocean...
Fishing drop sinkers can help take your bait down to where big fish lurk. Great drop sinkers to attract bigger fish. * JSHANMEI fishing sinkers hold in strong waves and current extremely well due to...
Pyramid Sinkers Fishing Weights, Tangle Free Bullet Pyramid Weights for Saltwater Surf Fishing...
FUSIGO fishing sinkers weights hold in strong waves and current extremely well due to pyramid design, Pyramid sinkers can reduce the resistance to the risk of falling into the water. * The pointed...
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...
Zhanmai Fishing Weights Sinker Assortment Kit Rig Pyramid Sinker Weights Saltwater Freshwater...
Quality and Reliable: these fishing sinkers are made of quality materials, which are strong and trusty, and not easy to break, have good wear resistance, corrosion resistance and impact resistance...
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...
【You Will Get】: 1oz,10Pcs * 【High Quality】: This durable lead material is stable and easy to sink in water. It's the perfect gift for family, friends, and fishing enthusiasts. * 【Pyramid...
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
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...
Gorilla Carts Fish and Marine Cart, Aluminum Poly Bed Wheelbarrow with Rod Holders, 200 Pound...
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...
Jeremywell Outdoor Heavy Duty Aluminum Fishing Cart/Beach Cart with Large Wheels for Fishing...
This cart has a heavy-duty frame and the capability to hold up to a 54-quart cooler or 200 lbs. This cart includes a frame with 8 durable corrosion-resistant aluminum rod accessory holders. * This...
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
FROGG TOGGS Mens Hellbender Breathable Stockingfoot Fishing Chest Wader, Slate/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 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...
BASSDASH 3D Boot Foot Game Wader Ultra High Strength Black Plaid Nylon PVC Fishing Hunting Chest...
Supple, high strength, and more moisture-proof ripstop plaid fabric whose durability has been dramatically improved than that of common PVC waders; For added strength, the seams are double stitched...
Trudave Chest Waders for Men with Boots, 2-Ply Nylon/PVC Waterproof Fishing & Hunting Waders for...
【Waterproof & Breathable】Trudave chest waders are designed with nylon oxford 4-Layer fabric and full seam tape. Provides superior abrasion-resistance, tensile strength, and long-term durability...
DikaSun Fishing Waders for Men & Women, Waterproof 2-Ply Nylon/PVC Chest Wader with Boots for...
【True-to-Size Waders Fit Guide】These chest waders match your regular shoe size. For wide feet or thick socks, size up for comfort. Unisex design fits men & women perfectly. * 【100% Waterproof...
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 Johnson Sprite Fishing Hard Bait, Gold - Redfish Kit, 2 1/2in - 3/4 oz
Sprite redfish lure spoon effective on all predatory fish species * Comes with unique zig zag wobble and red teaser tab adding attraction for predatory fish as is oscillates back and forth ...
TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Multi Jointed Swimbaits Slow Sinking Bionic Swimming Lures...
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...
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...
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...
FishingPepo 3Pcs Fishing Soft Plastic Lures Crab Soft Lure with Double Fishing Hooks Crab Baits...
Soft fishing lures:You will get 3pcs soft crab baits, each soft lure weights 1.05oz/30g, 0.67oz/19g, which can meet your daily fishing needs. * Soft and durable: The crab lures are made of high...
【Essential Fishing Tackle Kit】- PLUSINNO's high-quality bait provides beginners with a variety of options, capable of catching nearly any type of fish, from bass to trout. This versatile starter...
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.
$106.75 
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.
$18.99
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.
$24.26
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