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...
PENN 7’ Pursuit IV 2-Piece Fishing Rod and Reel (Size 4000) Inshore Spinning Combos, 7’, 2...
PENN PURSUIT IV 7’ 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...
Sougayilang Surf Fishing Rod Combo Medium/Heavy 3 Piece Baitfeeder Spinning Combo with 4000 Size...
VERSATILE DESIGN: 3-piece surf fishing rod combo with medium/heavy power rating, perfect for travel and easy storage while maintaining professional performance * ROD SPECIFICATIONS: 11-foot length...
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... Seaguar AbrazX 100% Fluorocarbon Fishing Line 10lbs, 200yds Break Strength/Length - 10AX200 A freshwater mainline with unparalleled abrasion resistance and strength for fishing around logs, docks, and heavy grass * Targeting finicky, hard-to-reach fish in brush and wood without worry makes... KastKing Superpower Braided Fishing Line,Low-Vis Gray,10 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 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... SpiderWire Superline Ultracast Braid, Aqua Camo, 10lb | 4.5kg, 164yd | 150m Braided Fishing Line... SPIDERWIRE ULTRACAST BRAID combines the best of Spiderwire performance into an eight-strand braided line, constructed using a cold-fusion process for added durability and abrasion resistance. ...
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...
HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL: Fishing leader line is made of tensile strength nylon material that makes it hard to break. Aluminium crimps and Stainless steel swivels and hooks are free of corrosion and...
Pompano Rig Saltwater Surf Fishing Rigs – 6 Pack Double Drop Leader Rigs with Hooks, Floats...
60lb Pompano Rig for Surf Fishing Line: Double-drop loop style pompano rig with 60lb Mono leader material and multiple hook positions for increased catch probability. * Pompano Rig: Ideal for surf...
Pompano Rigs for Surf Fishing Saltwater, Pre-Rigged Double Drop Fishing Rigs with Floats Beads...
60lb Pompano Rig for Surf Fishing Line: Double-drop loop style pompano rig built with strong 60lb mono leader line. Multiple hook positions increase your chances of catching fish. Perfect for pairing...
STABLE & NATURAL SURF FISHING RIG – FISH FINDER RIG: The Fish Finder Rig is one of the most effective setups for surf fishing, particularly when using live or cut bait! Designed to withstand 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:
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.
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...
Adjustable Sand Spike Rod Holder, Sand Spike for Surf Fishing-Great for surf, Bank, Beach Fishing...
Heavy Duty Plastic Material
Package Includes: the package comes with 4 sand spikes for surf fishing, suitable for daily sea fishing, surf fishing; Enhanced convenience, multiple usage possibilities, designed to meet your...
Package Includes: the package comes with 2 sand spikes for surf fishing, suitable for daily sea fishing, surf fishing; Enhanced convenience, multiple usage possibilities, designed to meet your...
Sand Spikes for Surf Fishing, Sand Spike Rod Holder, Surf Rod Holder with Alumina Sharp Tip and...
✅ Durable yet Lightweight Materials: Crafted from high quality anodized aluminum, this sand spike is built to resist corrosion and harsh saltwater conditions for long lasting use. The rod holder...
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 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...
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...
Pyramid Sinkers Fishing Weights Saltwater Lead Surf Fishing Weights Sinkers Gear Tackle Kit 1oz...
Premium Lead Fishing Weights – High-quality pyramid sinkers designed for surf and saltwater fishing, ensuring durability and reliable performance in tough conditions. * Multiple Size Options –...
Multiple Sizes: Fishing pyramid sinkers available in 4 sizes of 1oz, 2oz, 3oz, 4oz, multiple sizes to meet your different fishing needs, visible numbers clearly indicate weight of sinkers for your...
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 BRSC Beach Runner Fishing and Beach Cart,Multicolor
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 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...
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 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...
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...
FROGG TOGGS Men's Hellbender Pro Stockingfoot Fishing Chest Wader Gray Large
FOR 23 YEARS- frogg toggs has endeavored to provide the world’s best rainwear, waders, cooling products, footwear and accessories at the best possible prices. * 100% WATERPROOF & BREATHABLE...
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 Pre-Rigged Fishing Jigs, 1:50 Super Durable TPE Bass Fishing Lures, Well-Made Lifelike...
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...
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.
$62.99 
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
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