Watching silver tarpon rolling in the surf always grabs my attention, but I see a lot of anglers walk right by them, not even aware of the chance to hook one up. Tarpon come close to shore when the weather warms, chasing baitfish that hug the beach. These massive fish aren’t out where boats go. … Read more
Targeting snook can be really exciting, but this species has a reputation for leaving even seasoned anglers frustrated. Most people think catching snook is straightforward—just fish near docks or bridges and wait. My own experience has shown me that success actually comes from understanding how snook behave, what they eat, and especially what conditions bring … Read more
Targeting striped bass from the surf has always drawn me in, both for the excitement and the challenge. If you’re new to the scene, you might see a crowded midday beach and assume that’s when the bite is hottest. QUICK LOOK: Tips for Targeting Striped Bass in the Surf The truth is, stripers behave differently … Read more
Every surf angler has heard this debate: live bait or artificial lures. Both sides have strong followers, and plenty of stories to back up their claims. I’ve tried both over the years and faced days when fish wanted nothing but the real thing, and other days when plastic out-fished anything alive. Understanding the difference, knowing … Read more
Trying to pick the right fishing reel can be harder than it looks, especially if you’re new to fishing or moving from freshwater to saltwater. I see the same reels popping up everywhere, on forums, in YouTube videos, and in those beginner buying guides. The crowd favorites almost always look good on paper and feel … Read more
Beach shark fishing is something many anglers dream about but often find intimidating at first. When I tried it for the first time, I realized how much practical preparation and thoughtful gear choices mattered; it was far more important than just luck or strength. For beginners, learning the right approach can help avoid frustration and … Read more
The idea that flounder can only be caught in deep water keeps a lot of beach anglers from trying for them in the surf. My own experience has shown me that not only can you catch flounder right from the beach, but you can also find some of the best fishing of the year just … Read more
Many anglers think redfish bite without rhyme or reason, but after years on the marsh, I’ve realized there’s much more happening below the surface. Figuring out redfish behavior leads to better catches and fewer slow days. Redfish are consistent creatures; their feeding follows patterns once I know what to keep an eye out for. These … Read more
Watching a big fish break off after a long fight in the surf can leave even experienced anglers shaking their heads. The first instinct for a lot of surf fishermen is to blame the hook. Maybe it was too small, maybe not sharp enough, or just the wrong style for the job. I’ve been there … Read more
Surf fishing is full of surprises for anyone who pays close attention to the beach. I’ve learned that the “gut”, that trough of deeper, moving water just off the sand, offers a wide open invitation to fish, but it’s overlooked more often than you might think. Understanding how to spot and fish the gut can … Read more
