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.

Fishing rods on Avalon Pier

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.

A man surf fishing on the beach

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 Bigwater Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo,Black/Red/Yellow
$99.95

Ugly Tech Construction * Ugly Stik Clear Tip * Ugly Tuff Guides * Fuji Reel Seat * Durable Rubber Gimbal (select models)

PENN 10’ Pursuit IV 2-Piece Fishing Rod and Reel (Size 4000) Surf Spinning Combos, 10’, 2 Graphite Composite Fishing Rod with 5 Reel, Durable and Lightweight, Black/Silver
$121.00

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 6'6
$78.87

PENN WRATH II 6'6" FISHING ROD AND SPINNING REEL COMBO: A versatile all-rounder made for winning battles with crappie, bass, catfish, and more. * SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION: Lightweight and...

Sougayilang Surf Fishing Rod Combo IM8 Carbon 3 Piece Travel Spinning Rod with 4000 Size Spinning Reel - 9', Green, with KO4000
$69.98

TRAVEL-FRIENDLY: This 3-piece design makes it incredibly convenient for on-the-go fishing adventures. The easy-to-store, carbon fiber material ensures a lightweight and responsive feel that sets it...

PENN Battle IV Spinning Reel and Fishing Rod Combo
$149.99

CNC Gear Technology * Hydro Armor system seals critical areas from water intrusion * HT-100 carbon fiber drag washers * 5+1 sealed stainless steel ball bearing system * Line Capacity Rings

Sougayilang Baitfeeder Combo Surf Fishing Rod Combo Medium/Heavy 3 Piece Travel Spinning Rod with 4000 Size Reel (10')
$72.98

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...

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

 

Surf Fishing Line

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 Line 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 for Saltwater and Freshwater Environments
$11.99

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® Superline, Moss Green, 15lb | 6.8kg, 125yd | 114m Braided Fishing Line, Suitable for Freshwater and Saltwater Environments
$13.87

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,10 LB,327 Yds
$15.99

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...

Reaction Tackle Braided Fishing Line Blue Camo 20LB 300yd
$17.98

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 20lb
$22.95

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...

Berkley Trilene Big Game Braid Fishing Line
$19.73

Incredibly strong and thin - 3x stronger than mono of the same diameter * Zero Stretch - For ultimate line sensitivity * Tough and Abrasion Resistant - Slices through vegetation

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

 

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:

YOTO Fishing Leaders,Saltwater Tackle Rig with Swivels Snap, High-Strength Fishing Wire Gear Equipment for Lures Bait Or Hooks,1Arm and 2Arm
$12.99

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 Kit Ocean Saltwater Fishing Lures Surf Fishing Gear Fish Finder Rigs Pompano Rig Pyramid Sinker Weight Fishing Hooks Swivels Various Accessories
$35.99

【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...

Pompano-Rigs-for-Surf-Fishing-Saltwater-Gear with Double Circle & Wide Gap Hook-6-Pack Surf Fishing Tackle
$12.99

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 Unique T-Knot Strong Pre-Rigged Pompano Rigs Surf Fishing Rigs Saltwater Bullet Float(2colors)*2/0 Hook*10PCS
$16.99

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
$19.99

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...

CWSDXM Pompano Rigs for Surf Fishing Saltwater Pre-Rigged Fishing Rigs with Floats Beads Double Circle Hook Surf Fishing Tackle 12/15PCS (5 colors-5pcs)
$8.99

【Surf Pompano Rig】Pompano Rigs are made with top-notch materials, including 60LB mono line, 2 pompano floats, 2 rolling swivel, 1 hooked snap, 2 circle hooks #2/0 and beads. 5 colors pompano...

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

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:

Sea Striker BRSC Beach Runner Fishing and Beach Cart,Multicolor
$60.00

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...

The Beast Sand Spike Rod Holder / 57 inches/Aluminum/Stainless Steel Hardware
$47.98

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.

E-jades Fishing Rod Holders for Bank Fishing, Fishing Pole Holders for Ground 360 Adjustable, Bank Rod Rack Stand,Fish Pole Holder for Beach, Gifts for Men Father’s Day Birthday-2 Pack
$21.99

Upgraded Material for Durability: Crafted from reinforced nylon, this bank fishing rod holder is exceptionally durable and rust-resistant, ensuring a long lifespan. Its high hardness and toughness...

4 Pack Fishing Rod Holder, Rod Holder for Bank Fishing,Fish Pole Holder for Beach,Ground Support Stand Fishing Holder, Reinforced PVC,4 Free Fishing Rod Alarm Bell
$17.99

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...

Fishing Rod Holder, 4 Pack Fishing Pole Holders Ground, Rod Holders for Bank Fishing, Beach Support Stand Reinforced PVC, 4 Free Alarm Bells
$18.98

【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...

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

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 Saltwater Fishing Gear Tackle 1oz 2oz 3oz 4oz 5oz 6oz 8oz
$9.99

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 Saltwater Pyramid Weights for Surf Fishing Gear Tackle 1oz 2oz 3oz 4oz 5oz 6oz 8oz
$6.99

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 Sinkers Bass Casting Gear Tackle in 1, 3, 4, 6 oz
$29.99

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...

Fishing Weights Sinkers Pyramid Sinkers Surf Fishing Sinkers for Saltwater Fishing Gear Tackle 1oz 2oz 3oz 4oz 5oz 6oz 8oz 10oz 12oz 14oz 16oz
$7.99

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...

BLUEWING 1lb Box Pyramid Sinkers Lead Fishing Weights for Saltwater, 3oz 5 Pack
$15.49

High Quality: Made of durable lead material that is stable and sinks easily in water. * Pyramid Design: The special design allows anglers to easily cast great distances and is practical for fishing...

Zuiwan 7PCS Pyramid Fishing Weights Sinkers,Lead Fishing Weights for Saltwater Fishing,Triangle Fishing Sinkers and Weights for Surf Fishing,4oz,3oz
$19.99

★Pyramid Structure★ The pyramid design of this fishing lead weight ensures rapid settling in the water, anchoring the bait securely to sandy or muddy bottoms, providing excellent stability ...

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

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
$384.99

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
$75.00

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 BRSC Beach Runner Fishing and Beach Cart,Multicolor
$60.00

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 Capacity
$176.99

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
$127.50

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...

Bonnlo Beach Fishing Cart, Beach Wagon Trolley with 11
$159.99

【Easy Transportation】 The Beach Cart features upgraded 11-inch solid wheel and bearings; It is not only silent and shock-absorbing but also wear-resistant; the wheels are designed to effortlessly...

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

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
$119.99

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 for Men and Women Brown Size 10
$58.99

【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
$95.62

WATERPROOF and BREATHABLE – 4-ply Nylon Upper constructed with DRIPORE Gen 2 material. Breathable, lightweight, abrasion-resistant, 100% waterproof * NEOPRENE BOOTIES – 4mm Waterproof, double...

FROGG TOGGS Aransas II Neoprene Surf & Sand Wading Boot
$79.99

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...

Foxelli Chest Waders, Waterproof 4mm Neoprene Hunting & Fishing Waders for Men & Women with Boots
$99.97

Stay warm and dry with 4mm neoprene, providing excellent insulation for cold water fishing or hunting. Designed for both men and women to stay comfortable and ready for every adventure. * Convenient...

Calamus WaveWalker Fishing Waders for Men & Women, 100% Waterproof PVC Chest Waders with Slip-Resistant Boots, Tear-Resistant Nylon, Ample Storage, Wader Hanger, Black, M10/W12
$69.99

100% Waterproof: Constructed from durable nylon with a PVC membrane, the Calamus WaveWalker Fishing Waders deliver complete waterproof protection. The durable water repellent (DWR) finish enhances...

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

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.

TRUSCEND Fishing Lures for Bass Trout Multi Jointed Swimbaits Slow Sinking Bionic Swimming Lures Bass Freshwater Saltwater Bass Lifelike Fishing Lures Kit
$17.99

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 Pre-Rigged Fishing Jigs, 1:50 Super Durable TPE Bass Fishing Lures, Well-Made Lifelike Soft Shrimp Swimbait, Weedless MarshSwamp Fishing Lure for Trout Crappie Walleye, Keep Separately!
$19.99

WARNING - Do not mix any truscend shrimp lures with other traditional plastics. Store in a separate tray, bag or box. * REALISTIC ACTION - TRUSCEND shrimp features a segmented body that creates...

10PCS Saltwater Fishing Lures Shrimp Baits Set, Premium Soft Shrimp Fishing Tackle with Luminous Sharp Hooks, for Freshwater and Saltwater - Syosisny
$9.97

ULTRA SOFT LIFE-LIKE FISHING LURES: Soft plastic shrimp fishing lures set includes 10PCS soft shrimp baits that made of high quality plastic material, very soft body and alive swimming actions...

Tripquips Saltwater Jigs Fishing Lures with Ultra-Sharp Hooks, Saltwater Spoon Lure for Tuna Salmon Grouper, Sea Fishing Jigging Lure, Trolling Spoon for Bass Fishing-30g-5PCS
$9.99

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...

KastKing SteelStream 6pc Fishing Tool Kit - Corrosion Resistant Fishing Pliers with Lanyard, Fillet Knife, Floating Fish Lip Gripper, Fishing Braid Scissors, Tool Retractor, Fishing Gifts for Men
$31.99

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...

Bionic Swimming Bait, 10cm(3.9in) Fishing Lures, Bionic Fishing Lures That Swim by Itself (5pcs (ABCDE))
$19.99

EASY TO USE FOR BEGINNERS: The Bionic Swimbait is designed to be extremely beginner friendly, especially for young anglers. It automatically swims in the target area and can be easily maneuvered...

*Prices are updated several times a day, but subject to change at any moment

Pier fishermen

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

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.

$97.44

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

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 Fillet Knife, 5 inch Bait Knife

KastKing Fillet Knife, 5 inch Bait Knife

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

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)

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.

$22.46

 

Best Surf Fishing Gear for 2025
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Awful Arthur's Oyster Bar

Welcome to the home of the happy oyster where for over 40 years the oyster has been our world. The Outer Banks only authentic oyster bar is the place to enjoy sensational fare from the sea washed down with your favorite brew or cocktail. We serve by the peck, pound, and dozen, raw or steamed to perfection. Kicked back casual, down to earth friendly staff, and reasonable prices make Awful Arthur’s Oyster Bar the all-time favorite of locals and travelers alike.

The idea wasn’t to set out and establish a new concept restaurant on the Outer Banks, but that’s exactly what Awful Arthur’s owner Jo Whitehead and her late husband, Jay, accomplished more than 35 years ago when they opened the area’s first authentic oyster bar.

 

Awful Arthur’s opened in May 1984 on the Outer Banks. “We embraced the concept of an authentic copper top bar with the idea of it being a major drawing card and it still is,” explains Whitehead. “I get oysters wherever they are local. We follow the warm waters.” 

 

Just across from the ocean, in Kill Devil Hills, oyster season is year-round at Awful Arthur’s. Diners can take a seat at the copper-topped bar to observe the staff shucking oysters, served raw or steamed, along with shrimp, crab legs and clams all steamed to perfection. 

 

It’s not just the raw bar that’s earned Awful Arthur’s both local and national recognition, including being named one of America’s greatest oyster bars by Coastal Living magazine. The restaurant is a seafood-lover’s paradise, offering the freshest catches available.