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
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...
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...
KastKing Rekon Spinning Fishing Reel Combo 10'0" H 8000 Reel, Dark Grey
Unrivaled Drag Power & Durability – The KastKing ReKon Saltwater Rod & Reel Combo is built for serious saltwater performance. The 3000/4000 sizes feature a 30 lb 2-disc carbon fiber drag system...
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...
Lightweight and Sensitive Graphite Blanks – ZWMC Spinning Combos feature a sensitive and light-weight Graphite blank designed to provide exceptional value and performance for all anglers. All...
Sougayilang Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo, 4 Piece MH/H Saltwater Fishing Combo with 5000 Size...
Sougayilang Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo, 4 Piece MH/H Saltwater Fishing Combo with 5000 Size Spinning Reel(12' Blue) * Saltwater-Specific Graphite Rod Blank: Sturdy & Durable:Crafted from a...
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...
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...
KastKing Superpower Braided Fishing Line, Gray, 20 LB, 150 Yds
Strong Knot Strength - Dynamically incorporated strands in KastKing SuperPower Braided Lines allow you to easily tie a more solid knot; you can even tie an improved clinch knot. The special...
Excellent Material:GUMMAX braided fishing line 80lb is constructed from 8 high-strength PE (polyethylene) strands, woven with professional technology to form a tight-knit structure. Its strength...
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:
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...
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...
【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...
FASPLORE 4-Pack Telescopic Fishing Rod Holders for Ground Fishing Rod Holders Stand Fishing Pole...
What You Get? 4-Pack extendable fishing rod holders and 10 pcs fishing bells for rod,the holder is with a contraction length of 14 inches, freely extending up to a maximum length of 20 inches. ...
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...
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.
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...
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...
Sufficient for Long Time Use: you will receive 18 pieces of fishing weights, each of them is about 8 oz, the quantity is enough for meeting your daily use and replacement needs, suitable for your...
Aosethefrt Pyramid Sinkers Assorted Weights 2oz 3oz 4oz, Lead Surf Fishing Sinkers for Saltwater...
【You Will Get】: Contains different pieces of fishing weights, ranging in weight from 2 ounces to 4 ounces, which is convenient for fishing enthusiasts to use. * 【Pyramid Design】: Stand firmly...
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. ...
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 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, 350 lbs Load Capacity, Fish and Marine Cart with Two 16" 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...
Bonnlo Beach Fishing Cart, Beach Wagon Trolley with 16" Big Balloon Wheels for Sand, Foldable...
【Spacious Cargo Basket】This foldable beach wagon comes with a spacious cargo basket measuring 41.6" x 18.1" x 7.1". It has an impressive carrying capacity of over 79.5-quarts and can handle up to...
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
FISHINGSIR Fishing Waders for Men, 2-Ply Nylon/PVC Waterproof Women Chest Wader with Boots...
Durable Material: Made of upgraded 2-Ply nylon/PVC waterproof fabric. This next generation nylon fabric features a great knitting density performance, it is about 2.5 times higher than common nylon...
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...
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.
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 7719GC Buchanan Polarized Sunglasses Crystal Gunmetal Copper
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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