Best Lures For Beach Fishing

Sergio Smirnoff

Hello, my name is Sergio Smirnof, and my goal with FishReeler is to provide a valuable resource for anglers of all levels, from beginners to experienced veterans. I hope that my passion for fishing and dedication to the sport shines through in the content I create and inspires others to get out on the water and catch some fish!

Well, I wouldn’t say I’m a true expert, but I do know a thing or two about fishing! When it comes to beach fishing, lures are an essential part of your arsenal.

Mastering the Art of Beach Fishing: A Guide to Lure Selection

Lures for beach fishing come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some popular options include metal spoons, soft plastics, and topwater plugs. These lures are designed to mimic the movement of baitfish or other prey, enticing larger fish to strike.

When selecting lures for beach fishing, it’s important to consider the conditions you’ll be fishing in. If the water is choppy or rough, a heavier lure like a metal spoon may be more effective. On calmer days, a topwater plug that creates a lot of surface action can be a great choice.

Another factor to consider is the species of fish you’re targeting. Different types of fish have different feeding habits and preferences. For example, if you’re targeting striped bass, a soft plastic lure that resembles a sand eel might be your best bet.

As a fisherman, you know that the right lure can make all the difference in your success. When fishing from the beach, it’s important to use lures that will match the conditions and attract fish.

Expert Tips for Using Lures in Different Beach Conditions and Tides

Benefits of Lures for Beach Fishing Explanation
Versatility Lures come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them versatile and adaptable to different fishing conditions and target species.
Durability Unlike live bait, lures are made to withstand the rigors of saltwater fishing, which means they last longer and provide more value for the money spent.
Reusability Lures can be used multiple times, which is cost-effective and convenient, especially for avid anglers who fish frequently.
Increased Control Lures give the angler more control over the presentation of the bait, allowing them to mimic the natural movements of prey and attract more fish.
Attractiveness Lures are designed to be visually appealing and mimic the movements of prey, which can attract more fish and increase the chances of a successful catch.
Conservation Using lures instead of live bait can reduce the impact on the environment and preserve natural resources.
Safety Using lures eliminates the need to handle live bait, which can be dangerous and potentially harmful, especially for novice anglers.

Reeling in the Big Ones: The Best Lures for Beach Fishing Success

A table that outlines some popular options and their features:

Model Lure Type Features
Diamond Jig Metal Jig Mimics a baitfish and can be casted far distances
Bucktail Jig Hair Jig Creates natural movement and imitates small baitfish or squid
Swim Shad Soft Plastic Mimics swimming action of baitfish and can be rigged weedless
Spoons Metal Lure Reflects light and creates a fluttering action in the water
Topwater Plug Hard Lure Creates surface commotion and can entice topwater strikes

Diamond Jigs are popular for their ability to mimic a baitfish and their long casting distance. Bucktail Jigs, on the other hand, are known for their natural movement and ability to imitate small baitfish or squid. Swim Shads are soft plastic lure that mimics the swimming action of a baitfish and can be rigged weedless to avoid getting caught on underwater vegetation. Spoons reflect light and create a fluttering action in the water that can entice fish to strike. Finally, Topwater Plugs create surface commotion and can be especially effective for enticing topwater strikes.

Keep in mind that the best model lures for beach fishing can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of fish you’re targeting, the time of day you’re fishing, and the specific conditions of the beach you’re fishing at.

Mastering the Art of Beach Fishing: Tips and Tricks for Lure Selection and Technique

Choosing the right lures for beach fishing can greatly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you choose the right lures:

  • Consider the species of fish you’re targeting: Different fish species have different feeding habits and preferences. Research the types of fish that are commonly found in the area you plan to fish and choose lures that are known to be effective for those species.
  • Take into account the water conditions: Water clarity, temperature, and current can all impact fish behavior and feeding habits. Choose lures that are appropriate for the water conditions you’ll be fishing in.
  • Match the lure to the type of baitfish present: Mimicking the size and color of the baitfish that are present in the area can increase your chances of success. Choose lures that imitate the size, shape, and color of the baitfish in the area.
  • Vary your lure selection: Fish can be finicky and may prefer different lures at different times. Bring a variety of lures with you and switch them out if you’re not having any luck with one.
  • Experiment with different retrieval techniques: The way you retrieve your lure can also make a difference. Try different techniques such as steady retrieval, jigging, and pausing to see what works best.

By considering these factors and experimenting with different lures and techniques, you can increase your chances of success when beach fishing.

The Top 15 Must-Have Lures for Successful Beach Fishing

In this article, we’ll highlight some of the best lures for beach fishing, so you can be sure to have plenty of success while casting from the shore. Whether you’re targeting bass or trout, these lures are sure to bring in the catch of your dreams!

1# Rapala Husky Jerk Minnow

Rapala Husky Jerk Minnow

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Specification

Length: 2-1/2″, 3-1/8″, 4″, 4-3/4″, 5-1/2″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 1/8 oz., 5/8 oz., 1.8 oz., 3/8 oz., 7/16 oz.
Hook Size: 10, 6

The Rapala Husky Jerk Minnow is the perfect bait for catching those big fish. It tracks true at any speed and is perfectly balanced, making it irresistible to fish. Plus, it has a loud rattle that drives them wild. And to make sure you have the best chance of landing your catch, it comes fitted with premium VMC black nickel hooks.

Pros
  • Tracks true at any speed

  • Perfectly balanced

  • Loud rattle

  • VMC black nickel hooks

Cons
  • Cannot be used in saltwater

  • Not good for murky water

2# Bandit 100 Series Crankbait

Bandit 100 Series Crankbait

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Specification

Length: 2″
Weight: 1/4 oz.
Hook Size: 6

The Bandit 100 Series Crankbait is perfect for anglers who want to make a big splash and attract lots of attention. These lures have an extra-wide wobble and a loud rattle that is sure to bring in the strikes. They also run true right out of the box, making them easy to use. The 100 Series Crankbaits are great for crappies and neutral bass.

Pros
  • Quality construction

  • Realistic baitfish patterns

  • Lifetime Warranty

  • Durable Plastic

Cons
  • Pricey

  • May not be suitable for all fishing conditions

3# Rapala Shad Rap SR05 Hard Bait

Rapala Shad Rap SR05 Hard Bait

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Specification

Length: 2″
Weight: 3/16 oz.
Hook Size: 8

The Rapala Shad Rap is a legendary lure that has been bringing in big fish for decades. Its balsa wood construction and lifelike finish make it irresistible to fish, while its hard-diving lip and sharp treble hooks ensure that it can stand up to even the toughest fights. Whether you’re casting or trolling, the Rapala Shad Rap is sure to give you the results you’re looking for.

Pros
  • Balsa wood construction

  • Lifelike finish

  • Hard-diving lip and sharp treble hooks

Cons
  • Can be tough to cast accurately

4# Arbogast Hula Popper

Arbogast Hula Popper

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Specification

Length: 1-1/4″, 1-3/4″, 2″, 2-1/4″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 5/8 oz., 3/8 oz., 3/16 oz.
Hook Size: 5, 4, 1, 8

The Arbogast Hula Popper is one of the most productive big bass baits of all time. Its concave mouth creates loud popping sounds and a bubble trail, while the hula skirt offers a seductive bit of fish-attracting flash. The Hula Popper can be plunked, popped, twitched, or jerked, and the slower you fish it, the more fish it pulls from cover to the surface. Arbogast – making your fishing productive and fun since 1932.

Pros
  • Works well in both salt and fresh water

  • Can be used to imitate a wide variety of baitfish

  • A loud popping sound draws fish in from a distance

  • Well-constructed and durable

Cons
  • Can be difficult to use for novice anglers

  • Best used in open water, may not be as effective in heavily vegetated areas

5# Bass Pro Shops XTS Lures Minnow

Bass Pro Shops XTS Lures Minnow

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Specification

Length: 2″, 3-1/8″, 4″
Weight: 3/8 oz., 1/16 oz., 1/5 oz.
Hook Size: 6, 8, 12

Looking for an awesome hard bait that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the Bass Pro Shops XTS Lures Minnow! This lure is handpainted with intricate detail and features all your favourite colours plus a few you won’t find elsewhere. The 3-D Lazerball eyes and VMC premium trebles give it a lifelike appearance that is sure to fool even the wariest of fish. The great action throughout the line is perfect for steady retrieves, stop-and-go jerking, or any other type of fishing you can dream up. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, the XTS Lures Minnow is sure to help you land the big one!

Pros
  • VMC premium trebles

  • Handpainted with intricate detail

  • 3D Lazerball eyes

Cons
  • It can be difficult to get the right action with this lure

6# Rapala Original Floating Minnow

Rapala Original Floating Minnow

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Specification

Length: 1-1/2″, 2″, 2-3/4″, 3-1/2″, 4-3/8″, 5-1/4″, 7″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 1/8 oz., 1/16 oz., 3/16 oz., 11/16 oz.
Hook Size: 10, 8, 6

The Rapala Original Floating Minnow is the lure that started it all and continues to be irresistible to gamefish. This versatile bait can be fished in a variety of ways, making it a great choice for anglers of all skill levels. Whether twitched on the surface, retrieved as a shallow runner, weighted with a split-shot for medium-depth swimming, or bottom walked off a sinker rig, the wounded minnow action is sure to draw strikes. The Original Floating Minnow is available in a range of sizes, from 4-3/8″ up, and features 3 hooks on larger models and 2 hooks on smaller ones. Get ready for some serious action with the Rapala Original Floating Minnow!

Pros
  • It can be cast easily and accurately.

  • This lure has a natural minnow swimming action that attracts fish.

  • It is available in a variety of colours, so you can match the lure to the conditions.

  • It is made with durable materials that can withstand repeated use.

Cons
  • It is not as versatile as some other lures.

  • It may not be suitable for all types of fish.

7# Berkley Flicker Shad Crankbait

Berkley Flicker Shad Crankbait

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Specification

Length: 1-1/2″, 2″, 2-3/8″, 2-3/4″, 3-1/2″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 1/8 oz., 5/16 oz., 1/2 oz., 3/16 oz.
Hook Size: 8, 6

Berkley Flicker Shad Crankbaits are the perfect lures for mimicking walleye’s favourite meal. With strong hook attachments and a wide range of colours, you’re sure to find the right bait for any fishing situation. And if you need a little extra help, don’t worry -the exclusive colours will give you an edge over the competition!

Pros
  • This lure is designed to mimic a baitfish, making it irresistible to fish.

  • It has a loud rattle and wobbling action that attracts fish from far away.

  • It is available in a variety of colours, so you can match it to the local baitfish.

  • It is also durable, so it can withstand the abuse of saltwater fishing.

Cons
  • It is expensive.

  • It can be difficult to get the lure to dive deep enough.

8# Rapala X-Rap

Rapala X-Rap

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Specification

Length: 1-1/2″, 2-1/2″, 3-1/8″, 4″, 4-3/4″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 1/8 oz., 3/4 oz., 1/16 oz., 7/16 oz.
Hook Size: 4,5; 6; 2; 10; 12

The Rapala X-Rap is a hard-cutting, aggressive lure that suspends on pause. Its textured translucent body features an internal holographic foil strip and is dressed with a flash foil teaser tail for an amazing flash. Fitted with super-sharp VMC black nickel hooks, the X-Rap is deadly on fish of all sizes.

Pros
  • The Rapala X-Rap is a versatile lure that can be used for many different types of fishing.

  • The X-Rap has a realistic swimming action that mimics baitfish, which makes it a very effective lure.

  • It is also available in a variety of colours, so you can match it to the conditions you are fishing in.

  • The Rapala X-Rap is built to last and will withstand repeated use without breaking or tearing.

Cons
  • It may be out of the budget of some anglers.

  • It may not be ideal for deep-sea fishing.

9# Rapala DT (Dives-To) Series Crankbait

Rapala DT Series Crankbait

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Specification

Length: 2″, 2-1/4″, 2-3/4″
Weight: 5/16 oz., 3/4 oz., 3/8 oz., 3/5 oz.
Hook Size: 4

Rapala DT Series Crankbaits are designed to fly like arrows and dive deep fast. With a custom lip design for each size, they’re perfectly balanced and easy to cast for distance. Plus, their internal rattles make them irresistible to fish.

Pros
  • Durable

  • Realistic baitfish patterns

  • 3D holographic eyes

  • Long casting distances

Cons
  • Colours may not be visible in all light conditions

10# Strike King KVD Square Bill Silent Crankbait

Strike King KVD Bill Silent Crankbait

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Specification

Length: 2″, 2-1/2″, 2-3/4″, 3″
Weight: 5/8 oz., 7/8 oz., 3/8 oz., 7/16 oz.
Hook Size: 4

Looking for a versatile bait that can be fished in a variety of conditions? Then you need the Strike King KVD Square Bill Silent Crankbait. This lure is a tournament-proven performer that’s perfect for shallow water power fishing. The square bill design allows it to deflect off cover while producing an erratic wandering action, and the lack of internal rattles results in a silent approach that is perfect for skittish, pressured fish. So whether you’re fishing the shallows or targeting finicky fish, the KVD Square Bill Silent Crankbait is a perfect choice.

Pros
  • Perfect for shallow water power fishing

  • Square bill design allows it to deflect off cover

  • Erratic wandering action

  • The bait is silent

  • It has a great design that makes it more attractive to fish.

Cons
  • The bait can be difficult to use in certain conditions.

  • It doesn’t have internal rattles, which means it is less effective in noisy environments.

11# Rapala Jointed Minnow

Rapala Jointed Minnow

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Specification

Length: 2″, 2-3/4″, 3-1/2″, 4-3/8″, 5-1/4″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 1/8 oz., 5/16 oz., 5/8 oz.
Hook Size: 2, 8, 6, 4, 10

The Rapala Jointed Minnow is a top-of-the-line bait designed for serious anglers. It features premium balsa wood construction and VMC Black Nickel hooks for stealthy, dependable performance. The articulated broken back design creates an attention-getting, baitfish-in-distress action that is sure to land you more fish.

Pros
  • Rapala Jointed Minnow catches fish easily

  • It is durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear

  • The colours are very realistic and attractive to fish

Cons
  • It can be a little too flashy for some anglers

  • The hooks can rust and corrode over time

12# Arbogast Jitterbug

Arbogast Jitterbug

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Specification

Length: 2″, 2-1/2″, 3″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 5/8 oz., 3/8 oz.
Hook Size: 1, 5, 6

The Arbogast Jitterbug is the perfect lure for bass fishing. Its deep, gurgling rhythmic action is irresistible to fish, and it casts like a dream. The Jitterbug is also big enough to attract bigger bass, which has been known to follow it for half a retrieve before attacking.

Pros
  • It is easy to use and produces great results in a variety of fishing conditions.

  • The Arbogast Jitterbug is durable and well-made and can last for years with proper care.

  • This lure has a versatile design that allows it to be used in multiple situations.

  • It is effective for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.

Cons
  • The Arbogast Jitterbug can be a bit too large for some fishermen.

13# Heddon Torpedo Hard Baits

Heddon Torpedo Hard Baits

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Specification

Length: 1-1/2″, 1-7/8″, 2-1/2″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 1/8 oz., 3/8 oz.
Hook Size: 10, 6, 4

Here’s a topwater lure that creates a tremendous disturbance, great for schooling fish feeding on or near the surface. It can be fished fast or slow, with a steady or sporadic retrieve, so you can find just the right cadence to trigger strikes.

Pros
  • Lifelike action

  • Versatile

  • Durable

Cons
  • Not as effective in noisy environments

  • Can be a bit too large for some fishermen

14# Cotton Cordell Super Spot Lipless Crankbaits

Cotton Cordell Super Spot Lipless Crankbaits

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Specification

Length: 2-1/2″, 3″
Weight: 1/4 oz., 1/2 oz.
Hook Size: 4

The Cotton Cordell Super Spot Lipless Crankbait is the original and signature shad body style that bass, pike and walleye love. This crankbait has a realistic finish with lifelike eyes and an incredibly tight wiggling action. With its big-time fish-attracting sound, it’s next to impossible to fish wrong!

Pros
  • They are easy to use

  • They generate a lot of vibration, attracting fish

  • They have great colours that make them stand out

Cons
  • They can be difficult to use in windy conditions

15# Rebel Crawfish

Rebel Crawfish

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Specification

Length: 1-1/2″, 1-5/8″, 2″, 2-3/8″
Weight: 1/10 oz., 1/9 oz., 3/8 oz., 1/5 oz., 3/16 oz.
Hook Size: 8, 6, 14

The Rebel Crawfish is one of those lures that has been around for a long time and is loved by many fishermen. Its realistic profile, pulsating action, and durable finish make it an ideal choice for bass, pike, trout, and other predatory fish.

Pros
  • Durable

  • Lifelike detail

  • Great action in the water

Cons
  • The paint job on some of the lures is poor quality

  • They tend to rust easily

FAQ

Are lures good for beach fishing?
Yes, lures are a great choice for beach fishing. They can be used to attract a variety of fish, and they are easy to use.
What colour of the lures is good for beach fishing?
When it comes to beach fishing, different lures will work better in different situations. However, there are a few colours that tend to be more successful than others. For example, brightly coloured lures often work well when fishing in clear water, as they can be seen more easily by fish. Additionally, natural colours such as green and brown can be effective when fishing in murky water.
How do you rig a lure for beach fishing?
There are a few different ways to rig a lure for beach fishing, but one of the most popular methods is to use a sinker weight and a swivel. The sinker weight keeps the bait in place on the bottom of the ocean or lake, while the swivel prevents line twists. You can also use a leader line between the bait and the mainline to prevent wear and tear on your mainline.
What is the best type of lure for beach fishing?
Theainline.
Should I use a heavy or light lure when beach fishing?
The best type of lure for beach fishing will depend on the species of fish you’re targeting, the water conditions, and the type of baitfish present in the area. Some popular options include diamond jigs, bucktail jigs, swim shads, spoons, and topwater plugs.
How do I retrieve my lure when beach fishing?
The way you retrieve your lure can make a difference in the number of strikes you receive. Try varying your retrieval technique, such as steady retrieval, jigging, and pausing, to see what works best for the conditions and species of fish you’re targeting.
Should I use live bait or lures when beach fishing?
Both live bait and lures can be effective when beach fishing. The choice will depend on personal preference, the type of fish you’re targeting, and the regulations in the area you plan to fish. In some cases, using lures may be more convenient and cost-effective, while in other cases live bait may be more effective in attracting fish.

Beach Fishing on a Budget: Affordable Lures That Still Catch Big Fish

Lures are essential tools for beach fishing. Choosing the right lure can make a big difference in the number of strikes you receive, and ultimately, your chances of catching fish. Factors such as the species of fish you’re targeting, the water conditions, and the type of baitfish present in the area can all impact the effectiveness of your lure. Popular options for beach fishing include diamond jigs, bucktail jigs, swim shads, spoons, and topwater plugs.

When it comes to beach fishing, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Different lures will work better in different areas and under different conditions. However, we have compiled a list of the best lures for beach fishing based on customer reviews and our own experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fisherman, we hope this guide will help you catch more fish on your next trip to the beach!

Sergio Smirnoff
Sergio Smirnoff
Professional fisherman with 40+ years of experience.
Fishing and the ocean is a passion of my life. I am passionate about all kinds of sea fishing: fishing from the shore (spinning, float, baitcasting), from a boat, and spearfishing day and night.

I live in Tenerife (Canary Islands) for the last 10+ years and share my daily fishing experiences on my website. Many years of personal experience as a fisherman and the vast experience of my friends allow me to write professionally on any fishing topics (from choosing a flashlight and equipment to deep-sea fishing).

All of my advice is based on practical real-world experience and will be useful to both novice anglers and professionals. Read more about the author.

Affiliate Disclosure: FishReeler.com sometimes gets paid for listings, through sponsors or affiliate programs like Amazon, Ebay, Cabelas, Bass Pro Shop, Shimano, Daiwa, Rapala, Renn, Okuma, KastKing, etс. Clicking a link helps keep FishReeler.com free, at no extra cost to you!

About the author: Each article is verified by the fishing expert Sergio Smirnoff. The articles are written by professional and amateur fishermen with 20+ years of fishing experience.

Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency. The articles are for informational purposes only, share your opinions in the comments and join the fishing discussions, let's share our fishing experiences together!

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Volstom Xatinha
Volstom Xatinha
2 hours ago

I fish the Gulf Coast in Alabama and my go-to targets are whiting, pompano, redfish, and flounder. I’ve found that when it comes to versatile bait that can catch pretty much any fish in the area, shrimp is definitely my favorite. It may not be the absolute best for a specific species, but it’s a great option for most.

However, when I’m targeting pompano and whiting specifically, I like to use sand fleas (also known as mole crabs). I’ve had a lot of success with them. For redfish, I prefer using larger speckled or blue crabs that have been halved and fished on the bottom, as well as cut baitfish.

When it comes to floundering, I tend to switch to artificial baits. I’ve had great luck using bucktail jigs that are tipped with Berkeley Gulp swimming mullet. It’s definitely one of my favorite artificial baits to use for floundering.

Aarnus Azucilyn
Aarnus Azucilyn
1 hour ago

I love fishing on the coasts of Georgia and Florida, and my go-to species are pompano, trout, flounder, whiting, redfish, black drum, bluefish, and Spanish mackerel. When it comes to bait, my favorites are shrimp and salted clam. Shrimp is always available and pretty much every fish out there loves it. Salted clam, on the other hand, is a bit harder to find, but it stays on the hook really well. I also like using crabs, fiddlers or cut blue crabs when I’m targeting redfish and black drums.

Fish bites are another great option that I’ve found to be just as good as bait sometimes. Plus, they’re really easy to work with and not messy at all (unless you’re trying to take them off the hook!).

When it comes to soft plastics, my two current favorites are the 3.75″ ribbed paddle tails (like the Strike King Raged Swimmer) and the Zman EZ Shrimp (unweighted so you have more options). Honestly, anything by Zman is great.

Finally, I also love using diamond jigs and bucktails as lures. I recently got a Lurh Jensen Crippled Herring that’s been working really well for me. It’s similar to a diamond jig but has a bit more action to it.

Pietor Marmin
Pietor Marmin
1 hour ago

In my experience fishing along the Gulf Coast and Atlantic coast, I’ve noticed that new anglers often struggle with retrieving their lures too slowly. Ocean fish are fast and instinctively strike when they see something moving quickly. 

If you’re not reeling in your lure fast enough (depending on the type of lure, of course), you might want to try going faster to see if you can get more strikes. It’s definitely worth experimenting with different retrieval speeds to find what works best for the species and conditions you’re fishing in. 

Bron Zazina
Bron Zazina
1 hour ago

In my experience, starting with spoons/metals and bucktails is a great way to get into beach fishing. With these two types of lures, you can cover a wide range of scenarios and presentations while still being able to cover a lot of water. Of course, there’s no substitute for time on the water, but I highly recommend checking out John Skinner’s YouTube channel for some great tips and techniques. While he primarily fishes NE surf for rock, the principles and applications are very similar.

Personally, I like to use sand crabs or 2-inch gulp camo sandworms on a 2 oz circle sinker on a fish finder rig, with around 24 inches of leader (or 12 inches if it’s rough conditions) for surf perch and stripers. When using this rig, I cast out and let it drift until it’s parallel to the shore, then reel it in slowly.

One of the best tips I can give for beach fishing is to find the troughs, which are usually not far from the shore, and look for breaks in the trough. That’s where you want to target your casts, just past those breaks, and work your rig in. I used to spend a lot of time walking along the beach with my rod in hand, scouting for those honey holes. It’s all about trial and error, but with practice and patience, you’ll soon become a beach fishing pro.

Neston Kranlz
Neston Kranlz
1 hour ago

Live bait such as shrimp, bull minnows, finger mullet, or pinfish work really well when fishing in the area you mentioned. Fresh dead shrimp or squid are also effective options. With these baits, you’ll have the potential to catch a variety of species including trout, redfish, flounder, stingray, saltwater catfish, sail catfish, and ladyfish.

However, it’s important to note that the area is home to many other species as well, and you never know what you might catch. As for rigs, I highly recommend rigging up a fish finder rig with a 1-ounce sinker, 30 lb. fluorocarbon leader, and a #1 hook. Avoid premade metal rigs and customize your own for better results. Best of luck on your next fishing trip!

Masterino Ordius
Masterino Ordius
1 hour ago

When it comes to catching redfish, trout, and snook, I prefer using weedless spoons with a split ring and swivel in 1/4, 3/8, or 1/2 oz. I usually retrieve them steadily with the current, which is great for when the water is dirty. 

My personal favorite lures are suspending lures like the Rapala Husky or Yozuri. For jig heads, I like using paddle tail shads in clear, white, and red, or bright colors for darker water. Artificial shrimp on jig heads also work well. Another option is to free-line live shrimp or pieces of them.

I find that the cheap round jigheads work well for smaller weights like 1/4 or 3/8 if the current is stronger. For larger weights like half an ounce or 3/4, I use flare hawk jigs, but I make sure to get a quality hook for the larger weights and hook sizes. VMC and Mustad have some nice heavy-duty jig heads, and I also like the DOA brand. 

It’s important to note that a large fish can easily bend a cheap jig head. I mostly fish in the Gulf, specifically in SWFL Collier County. If you’re looking to mix things up, try a really fast, steady retrieval, almost as fast as you can reel.

Paqon Rozah
Paqon Rozah
1 hour ago

I’ve found that the Savage Gear Manic Prey lures work really well for me. They come in various sizes, from 4″ to 8″, and a range of colors, and the hardware is already quite sturdy. I’ve even caught 33″ stripers on the smallest size with no issues. I prefer the bone color or blue/white. SP minnows are also great, but I recommend swapping out the split rings and hooks for better-quality ones.