Surfcasting is a sport fishing discipline that requires continuous learning. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, find out how to take your fishing to the next level.
Surfcasting is one of the most popular sport fishing techniques in Portugal. This fishing method involves casting the rod over long distances while waiting for that perfect bite. Although challenging, it is cherished for the thrill and excitement of catching large predators from the shore.
The secret to successful fishing lies in mastering this art. Believe me, every detail counts, from choosing the equipment to understanding weather conditions! That’s what we’ll explore in this article. Grab your rods and join us!
1. Choose the Right Surfcasting Equipment
Fishing Rods for Surfcasting
As with various types of sport fishing, selecting the right rod makes all the difference in the accuracy of your casts. For Surfcasting, we recommend carbon rods between 4,20 m and 5,00 m in length to ensure the perfect balance between flexibility and stiffness, allowing for longer yet controlled casts.
Besides length, it’s important to consider the rod’s weight. It should be light enough for long handling periods but sturdy enough to withstand larger fish.
Fishing Reels for Surfcasting
Just as important as the rod, you should opt for a reel that is lightweight yet durable.. Remember, balance is essential, so choose a reel with a weight similar to that of the rod..
ou’ve likely come across the term “reel ratio”. But what does it mean? The ratio indicates the amount of line the reel retrieves with each turn of the handle. Here, the choice depends on your personal preference. While a higher ratio allows for faster retrievals, a lower ratio provides more power during the catch.
Regarding the drag, which is the force the reel exerts on the line during a catch, we recommend something between 10 kg and 20 kg to ensure you’re prepared for big predators.
Finally, pay attention to the spool specifications, which are crucial for reducing the time between casts and increasing fishing efficiency. In Surfcasting, it’s important that the spool can hold long lines and has a diameter large enough for long casts and quick line retrievals.
Fishing Lines
And as they say, good things come in threes, so we can’t forget the fishing line. Now for the million-dollar question: monofilament or multifilament? Monofilament lines are known for their abrasion resistance and ease of handling. Multifilament lines, however, are gaining popularity among fisherman due to their thinness and high strength. Regardless of your choice, for Surfcasting, we recommend lines between 0.16 mm and 0.24 mm if you prefer thinner lines, or between 0.35 mm and 0.40 mm if you go for thicker ones.
Rod Stands
This is an extra that’s worth having—a helpful “extra hand.” Adjustable stands are ideal as they allow you to adjust the height and angle of the rods according to the fishing conditions. Additionally, a stable and sturdy stand will prevent the rod from falling or getting damaged during fishing. If you don’t have your stand yet, don’t wait any longer!
2. Perfect Your Casting Technique
Preparation and Stance
If you want to excel at each cast, adopting the correct stance is crucial to ensure stability and maximize casting power. How? Here’s a step-by-step: place your feet shoulder-width apart, with your dominant foot slightly back for a smoother movement. Finally, hold the fishing rod with your hands and keep a slight bend in your knees for better balance.
Casting
In Surfcasting, an effective cast requires coordination between your arm and body. When starting the casting motion, rotate your torso and hips back, loading the rod with energy. Then, make a quick and controlled forward motion, using your body’s strength to propel the rod and line. The arm should follow the body’s movement, ensuring even distribution of force.
Pro tips: try different sinker weights to find what best suits your rod and casting style. Heavier sinkers can help you cast further, but it’s important not to overload the rod.
3. Know Your Fishing Spot
Choose the Ideal Spot and Time
Fish during times of the day when they are most active. Typically, early morning and late afternoon are the best times for Surfcasting. Next, choose your spot wisely! The best beaches for Surfcasting have sandy bottoms or piers with reefs or rocks. These areas provide shelter and food for the fish.
Lastly, don’t forget to check the current regulations. These rules cover minimum fish sizes and closed seasons, protecting breeding species. This way, we help preserve our marine ecosystem.
Respect the Sea and Weather
Sea currents can affect the position of your bait and, consequently, your ability to catch fish. Observe the direction and strength of the currents before casting. Areas with moderate to strong currents usually attract more fish but require greater casting precision.
Additionally, pay attention to the color and clarity of the water. Clearer waters allow better visibility for both the angler and the fish. On the other hand, murkier waters, due to sediment or algae, although making visibility harder, can be nutrient-rich areas that attract schools of fish looking for food. In these cases, lures with vibrant colors or sound emitters are more effective. If the water appears greenish or bluish, it may indicate the presence of phytoplankton, attracting smaller fish and, consequently, larger predators.
When it comes to weather, plan your fishing trips according to weather conditions. Cloudy days or those with a light breeze are ideal, as fish tend to be closer to the surface. The rising or falling tide also represents key moments for catching fish, as many of them move during these times to feed.
Surfcasting is more than a sport fishing discipline; it’s a unique and unforgettable experience. To master it, you need patience, the right equipment, and respect for the marine environment. With our tips, you’ll turn any challenge on the coast into a triumph. Remember, though, that practice is the real secret. Have questions? We’re here to help you choose the perfect equipment for your adventures!