9 Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos for 2024

Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos

Looking for the Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos? You’ve come to the right place.

There is no better feeling than casting your bait confidently into the breakers, knowing you have the right tools for the job. But, choosing surf fishing gear can be quite challenging. You need a sturdy rod and reel capable of casting far, handling heavy baits, and managing saltwater currents. Your choice of equipment can make all the difference between a satisfying day or returning home empty-handed.

So, we have reviewed some of the top-rated surf combos on the market to help you pick one.

If you are in a hurry: Penn Battle III is the Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo.

Sale
Penn Battle III Combo
  • PENN BATTLE III 9’ FISHING ROD AND REEL SPINNING COMBO: Confidence and...
  • SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION: 2-piece, Graphite Composite rod offers a durable and...
  • RECOVERY RATE: Recovers at the rate of 41” | 104cm with every turn of the...

Last update on 2024-04-28 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Now, without further ado, let’s dive into our in-depth reviews.

The 9 Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos Reviewed

Here is our list of the top 9 surf fishing combos…

  1. Penn Battle III Surf Fishing Combo – Overall Winner
  2. Tailored Tackle Surf Combo – Alternative/ Runner-up
  3. Daiwa D-Wave Saltwater Spinning Combo – Budget Pick
  4. Ugly Stik Bigwater Surf Combo – Best Warranty (7 Years)
  5. Okuma Tundra Fishing Rod Combo – Best For Beginners
  6. Dr.Fish Surf Rod and Reel Combo – Best Full Kit
  7. Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Combo – Premium Option
  8. Daiwa BG Surf Spinning Combo – Great Value
  9. Sea Striker Surf Rod Combo – Best Under $50

1. Penn Battle III Surf Fishing Combo

PENN 9’ Battle III Fishing Rod and...
  • Rod Length: 9 ft
  • Power: Medium Heavy
  • Guides: Stainless Steel
  • Reel Size: 6000
  • Ball Bearings: 5+1

I recently bought the Penn Battle III spinning combo to test it out during my surf fishing trip to the Back Bay Refuge, Virginia. Out of the box, the combo felt solid and well-balanced in hand. The rod grip was firm but comfortable. Even though it is 9′ long, it felt surprisingly light. The spinning reel was unbelievably smooth. I also loved the beautiful matte black and gold finish.

Most anglers here catch striped bass, bluefish, kingfish, and redfish. So I decided to use a two-hook, bottom rig with 4-8 ounce pyramid sinkers and cut mullet and shrimp bait. The 6000-size reel really impressed me with its line capacity as I loaded almost 400 yards of 40 lb braid.

On my first day with the Penn Battle III, I was able to land a few hefty stripers and red drums. So I was eager to put the combo to a bigger test – night surf fishing.

I spooled it with a 50 lb braid and attached a spoon lure. With years of experience, I was able to cast the large 5 oz rig over 80 yards. I caught and released a 45″ red drum but even that didn’t smoke out the drag. The bull tried to head out, but the reel delivered enough drag to turn the fish around. Even on my subsequent trips, the Penn Battle III spinning combo helped me catch a variety of species like fluke and flounder.

2. Tailored Tackle Surf Combo

Tailored Tackle Surf Fishing Rod and...
  • Rod Length: 10 ft
  • Power: Heavy
  • Guides: Aluminum Oxide
  • Reel Size: 7000
  • Ball Bearings: 7+1

I picked the Tailored Tackle surf spinning combo to test it during my fishing trip to Tampa, Florida. Out of the box, the rod and reel setup felt extraordinarily well-balanced and sturdy. With my years of surf fishing experience, I immediately knew I had the right tools to capture even the biggest of fish.

On my first day there, I was fishing from a sea wall and the adjacent shorelines. The water was mostly calm but there were occasional rough waves due to the wind. So I decided to use a double-hook rig paired with large cut baits – mullet and herring and 3-4 oz sinkers to target bottom-dwelling fish.

The area here is known for its larger size fish, so I chose large cut baits – mullet and herring that most bigger prey love. I spooled the large 7000-size spinning reel with 350 yards of 30 lb braid. You can load up to 500 yards but I felt 350 yards was plenty of line for the conditions. I was impressed by how the 10′ rod let me make long precise casts up to 65 yards even in such windy conditions with ease.

The combo held up quite well and helped me take on several large snook and striped bass. The rod had plenty of backbone, while the reel was quite equipped to handle larger bait and hooks.

3. Daiwa D-Wave Saltwater Spinning Combo

Daiwa DWB50-B/F902M D-Wave Saltwater...
  • Rod Length: 9 ft
  • Power: Medium
  • Guides: Aluminum Oxide
  • Reel Size: 5000
  • Ball Bearings: 1+1

Daiwa D-Wave is the definition of durability! All last summer I took it to the beaches in the Chesapeake Bay and caught several fish with it. I was extremely pleased with the performance and weight distribution of the rod.

The very first time I took it for surf fishing, it helped me throw a 3 oz rig past the break. I used several different rigs over the summer depending on the target species and fishing conditions. But the rod was flexible enough to handle all of them quite well.

The two-piece fiberglass rod is so sturdy that you will find it tough to break it even if you try. Yet it is so comfortable I found it quite a pleasure to use even during lengthy sessions on the beach. The reel was smooth and held up well against turbulent water and big fish.

Check any online marketplace, and you will find a ton of positive reviews. But you don’t need to break the bank to buy the Daiwa D-Wave. It is so affordable I couldn’t find another option that offers so much value for the money. So I am happy to rate it as the best budget surf fishing combo on our list.

4. Ugly Stik Bigwater Surf Combo

Ugly Stik Bigwater Spinning Reel and...
  • Rod Length: 9 ft
  • Power: Medium Heavy
  • Guides: Stainless Steel
  • Reel Size: 7000
  • Ball Bearings: 1+1

I was looking for a new rod for my surf fishing trip to the Florida Keys last month. I had heard good things about the Ugly Stik Bigwater spinning combo from one of my friends who guides there. So I couldn’t let go of the opportunity to test it out at some of the most pristine East Coast beaches.

Out of the box, the 2-piece 9-foot rod gives you a very professional, no-nonsense feel. You will find the 7000-size spinning reel as robust as the rod. It may be an understatement to call the Ugly Stik Bigwater Surf rod ‘durable’. The 7-year manufacturer’s warranty quite well reflects its ability to withstand rough waves and heavy fish.

I was targeting medium-size snook, jacks, and mackerel using a circle hook, cut bait, and sinkers. So I spooled the reel with a 20-pound test line and a 40-pound fluorocarbon leader. The casting was quite a breeze as I was able to throw the 5 oz rig over the first break in the surf.

The reel held up well enough to help me land several 5 to 15 lbs saltwater fish with ease. So Ugly Stik Bigwater is one of my top picks if you are looking for a strong, durable yet easy-to-use reel and fishing rod combo. You just need to set it up with the right tackle to get a reliable performance.

5. Okuma Tundra Fishing Rod Combo

Okuma Fishing TU-1002-80 Tundra Spin...
  • Rod Length: 10 ft
  • Power: Medium Heavy
  • Guides: Stainless Steel
  • Reel Size: 8000
  • Ball Bearings: 1

I often get queries from anglers looking for the right gear to get into surf fishing. They are often planning a beach vacation and need an affordable rod and reel to fish in the surf a few times. Or, they are already there and looking to pick something from the local store.

When it comes to surf fishing, it is quite a bit more challenging than freshwater fishing. You need a solid rod and reel combo to cast far enough, handle rough waves, and bring in heavier fish. Yet you don’t want a beginner or someone who will fish just a few times to spend a ton of money. So it is tougher to recommend the right gear at a manageable price point.

But over the years, I have helped many anglers get started. And, in my experience, the Okuma Tundra is a great entry-level option. The rod provides enough control even beginners find long distance casting easy. The large and heavy-duty reel can land large fish off the beach or bring it back up on the bridge.

When I first ordered the Okuma Tundra Fishing Rod Combo, I thought I would only get a little use out of it. But the fiberglass rod didn’t break nor did the reel get into disrepair even after months of use. Just remember to wash it with clean fresh water after each use. Anyways, it is so affordable, that you can replace it at a reasonable price.

6. Dr.Fish Surf Rod and Reel Combo

Dr.Fish Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo,...
  • Rod Length: 12 ft
  • Power: Heavy
  • Guides: Ceramic
  • Reel Size: 9000
  • Ball Bearings: 9+1

Dr.Fish Surf Rod and Reel Combo is another great option for beginners. It is a full surf fishing kit that comes with almost everything you need to get started. Besides the rod and the reel, you also get a 50 lb braided line, a topwater popper, some jigs, hooks, and sinkers. So you just need to spool the reel and bring your bait to start fishing.

I recently used the Dr.Fish combo during one of my trips to the Pacific Northwest. The shoreline there was extremely sandy and sometimes rocky. But the 12-ft long rod helped me outcast most other anglers on the beach. It is a heavy rod built using high-density carbon fiber. So it gives you enough strength and durability to handle heavy rigs and large fish. Yet it was so sensitive that I could detect the fish bites even on windy shorelines.

The large 9000-size spinning reel was extremely smooth. I was throwing a circle hook rig with 4 oz sinkers and live eels and mussels. The reel handled my rig quite well. I was able to catch several flounders, stripers, and sturgeons in the 20 to 40-inch range and land them back on the beach with ease. So, with my experience, I feel happy to recommend Dr.Fish to any anglers looking for a full fishing kit.

7. Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Combo

PENN 10’ Spinfisher VI Fishing Rod and...
  • Rod Length: 10 ft
  • Power: Heavy
  • Guides: Stainless Steel
  • Reel Size: 6500
  • Ball Bearings: 5+1

Are you a serious angler looking for a surf fishing combo that rolls durability, quality, and performance into one? If so, let me introduce you to the Penn Spinfisher VI combo.

Unboxing it is akin to unwrapping a luxurious gift. The 10′ moderate fast action rod comes with an impressive 6500-size reel. You immediately notice the immaculate construction, design, and finish. It is one of the very few combos on the market where the rod and reel come pre-assembled in the box.

The Penn Spinfisher VI combo has accompanied me on several trips. But most recently, I put it to the test along a lengthy stretch of the Floridian coastline. The area is notorious for fierce waves, unforgiving winds, and an assortment of fish.

So, I spooled the reel with a 50 lb power pro braid and opted for a two-hook clipped-down rig with cut bait – small crab parts and shrimp pieces. My strategy was quite simple – cast the line as far as possible into the choppy surf and wait for a bite.

The surf was rambunctious with water spraying in all directions. But despite these taxing conditions, the Penn Spinfisher VI Spinning Combo didn’t falter. The heavy rod cast far enough, and the reel helped me pull in even the most resistant catch with ease.

8. Daiwa BG Surf Spinning Rod Combo

Daiwa BG5000/1002MH Daiwa, BG Saltwater...
  • Rod Length: 10 ft
  • Power: Medium Heavy
  • Guides: Aluminum Oxide
  • Reel Size: 5000
  • Ball Bearings: 6+1

One of our readers was keen on the Daiwa BG Surf Combo but wanted to hear our feedback before picking it. So I decided to test it out at a few different East Coast beaches and include the review here.

Out of the box, the Daiwa BG Surf Spinning Combo felt sturdy enough to withstand harsh conditions. The 10-ft medium-heavy rod paired with a size 5000 reel seemed equipped to handle big strikes.

Big fish roam the water there, so I spooled the reel with a 50 lb braid. I went with a popular surf fishing setup known as the fish-finder rig and cut bait – mullet, menhaden, shrimp, and sand fleas.

The stiff 2 pc rod withstood the high wind to make long casts. While the powerful reel helped me tackle most fish that came our way. The spinning reel is one of the best surf fishing reels as it uses a lot of top-end Daiwa tech. But you may find the rod with only four guides a bit of a letdown.

9. Sea Striker Surf Rod Combo

Sea Striker ST5080 Surf Spin Combo,...
  • Rod Length: 8 ft
  • Power: Medium
  • Guides: Stainless Steel
  • Reel Size: 5000
  • Ball Bearings: 1

Looking to surf fish on a tight budget? You must consider the Sea Striker as it is an affordable yet durable rod and reel combo. It has helped many anglers get started. I have recommended it to many anglers looking for a surf combo under $50. I always carry it whenever I am traveling – either as a backup rod or for lending out.

The Sea Striker combo comes with an 8-foot medium rod and a 5000-size reel. I have used it a few times in varied locations such as rocky inlets and sandy beaches. Recently I tested this rod in the summer during my surf fishing trip to the Outer Banks in North Carolina.

I was targeting small pompanos and drums, so I decided to use a rig with size 2 hooks, a 20lb braid, and a mono leader. I paired it with sand fleas, shrimp, and clam strips, as I’ve had much success with them. But you can choose the bait depending on your specific conditions.

I found the medium power rod light enough not to wear me out, yet strong enough to handle harsh conditions. It let me cast a long way over the high surf with great accuracy. The reel was quite efficient as well and helped me land several fish back on the beach.

How to Choose the Best Surf Fishing Combo

You must choose a reel and rod for surf fishing that suits your specific needs and preferences. So you to need consider some essential factors like the quality of the materials and construction as well as the type of line they’re designed to use.

But most important is the balance between the rod and reel pairing – the two must complement each other. Too heavy a reel on a light rod or vice versa can lead to poor surf casting performance and even damage your gear.

Rod Length

You will find most rods for surf fishing are generally between 9 and 14 feet long. But, ever wondered how to choose the right length? It largely depends on what you’re after and where you’re fishing.

Oh yes, the length of the rod plays a crucial role in what species you can fish effectively.

A longer rod means you can cast your bait further into the water where bigger fish often lurk. Shorter rods, on the other hand, offer more control for precise casting.

So a rod in the range of 9-10 feet is excellent for catching smaller species close to the shore.

How about going for the big ones? If you’re trying to reach beyond the surf, you’ll need a rod that falls within the 10-12 feet range. It will allow you to make cast beyond the breakers, where species like redfish, pompano, mackerel, and cobia often dwell.

A 14-foot rod can help you cast a lot farther and deeper into the water even if you are beach fishing. While you may find it a bit tough controlling such a long rod, it will certainly let you reach your target spot.

Rod Action

The action refers to the point where a rod bends along its blank. It helps you determine a rod’s sensitivity and how well or quickly you can set the hook once a fish bites. Generally, the faster the action, the more sensitive the rod. The rod actions are primarily categorized as – Fast, Moderate, and Slow.

A fast action rod will bend near the tip in the top third of its length. Moderate action rods bend toward the top half. While slow-action rods bend toward the handle in the lower third of their length.

We suggest most surf anglers pick a moderate action rod to get a good balance of long casting distance and hook-setting ability. But, remember, the right rod action for you depends on your target surf fish species.

Pick a fast-action rod if you’re targeting smaller species, like a Whiting or Pompano. But, choose a slow or moderate rod if you are planning to go after bigger species, like Flounder or Red Drum.

Rod Power

The rod power refers to the weight or force needed to bend a rod. It ranges from ultralight to extra-heavy.

Ultralight to medium power rods: you can use these rods for catching most small to medium-sized fish.

Medium-heavy to heavy power rods: these rods are designed for targeting larger fish.

Extra-heavy power rods: the final category designed to take on the most monstrous catches. You can use them for trophy fishing or any scenario where heavy-weight catches are the norm.

Bear in mind that the type of fish you’re targeting and your casting technique influence your choice. So opt for the rod power that aligns with your fishing style and the species you plan to catch.

Blank Material

The rod blank material, what’s that all about? When it comes down to the performance, the substance your rod is made from can make a big difference.

Firstly, we have graphite. Famed for being lightweight yet extremely strong, graphite rods offer unmatched sensitivity. But, its lightness and sensitivity come with a downside – it’s a bit more brittle than other materials. Thus it can break when subjected to high impact.

Second on the list is fiberglass. For the surf angler who values durability above all else, fiberglass is your best bet. Fiberglass rods can withstand relentless wave action, rough handling, and heavy loads. But they tend to be heavier and less sensitive compared to graphite.

Can’t decide between graphite and fiberglass? There’s a third option – composite, a combination of fiberglass and graphite. Composite rods give you the best of both worlds by balancing between sensitivity, weight, and durability.

Rod Guides

Rod guides are the loops that run down the length of the rod, helping you control the line. Most guides are made of stainless steel, ceramics, or titanium. Some can make your casts smoother, while some are more durable.

Stainless steel guides can handle heavier lines and harsh conditions without any problem. But they are not as smooth as ceramic guides.

Ceramic guides are extremely smooth and let you cast far with great accuracy. But, they are a bit less durable than stainless steel guides.

Titanium guides are smooth as well as durable. They are also the most lightweight. But you mostly find them on premium/ high-end rods due to their cost.

Handle Material

Most seasoned anglers understand the importance of the rod handle or grip. A comfortable handle not only reduces fatigue but also enhances sensitivity.

There are primarily three types of materials used in rod handles – Cork, EVA, and Hypalon.

Cork handles are classic, lightweight, and easy to grip. But, while cork handles are comfortable and sensitive, they wear down or chip faster.

So most modern rods on the market these days use an an EVA or Hypalon handle. EVA foam and Hypalon handles are smooth, durable, and resistant to harsh weather. You can expect a firmer grip compared to cork but with lesser sensitivity.

Reel Type

The first thing you need to consider is whether you want a spinning or a baitcasting type of reel.

Spinning reels are the easiest to use as the line feeds directly onto the spool. Even beginners can use them to make long and accurate casts. This is immensely beneficial when surf fishing as you often need to cast farther to reach the fish.

Most experienced anglers prefer baitcasting reels as they offer more control and accuracy. But, they have a steeper learning curve due to the ever-dreaded issue of backlash or “bird nest.”

Reel Material

Graphite reels are lightweight and highly resistant to corrosion – a big advantage when fishing in saltwater. But, they tend to be less durable compared to aluminum reels.

Aluminum reels are more sturdier and can stand up against bigger fish species. But they tend to corrode if not cared for properly. So you need to regularly clean and maintain them.

I recommend reels made of aluminum to any angler looking to snag the big one. It is your best bet for enduring the harsh saltwater environment.

Line Capacity

A standard principle that works for me is – the bigger the fish, the bigger the reel. So if you’re angling for larger species, you’ll need a sizeable reel with enough line capacity to take on them.

The length and weight of the line your reel can hold impact your ability to land fish. If you’re going after large, strong fish that run fast and far, a high line capacity is an absolute must. So I suggest you pick a fishing reel able to hold at least 200 to 300 yards of line.

Remember, underestimating line capacity can result in a lost catch. But using a big size reel for small fish would be an overkill. So it’s all about balancing and choosing based on the fish you aim to catch.

Ball Bearings

Bearings help reduce friction among the moving parts so your reel operates smoothly. The greater the number of ball bearings a reel has the smoother it will operate. But just having more isn’t always better.

The material and quality of the bearings are equally important. A fishing reel with fewer but high-quality bearings will often outperform a reel with a higher number of low-quality bearings.

So we suggest you look for a surf reel with at least 4 quality ceramic or stainless steel ball bearings and an anti-reverse bearing. The anti-reverse bearing prevents the reel from spinning backward. You will find it extremely useful in setting the hook quickly and properly.

Drag System

A reel’s drag system is the mechanism that puts resistance when a fish pulls on the line. A good smooth drag system allows you to fight back against the fish, tire it out, and eventually reel it in.

There are two main types of drag systems – front and rear.

Front drag systems come with multiple, large drag washers to exert strong pressure. But, they are not as easily adjustable, especially during a fight.

Rear drag systems can be easily adjusted due to their handy location. But they do not offer as much power as front drag models due to smaller drag washers.

So pick a front drag surf fishing reel if you are after the larger species requiring more power. Choose a rear drag reel if you need the flexibility to adjust the drag quickly.

Gear Ratio

The gear ratio tells you how many times the reel spool turns for each complete turn of the handle. It determines how quickly your line is retrieved. A higher ratio results in a faster retrieval while a lower ratio provides more torque.

So, what gear ratio is ideal for surf fishing? We suggest you pick a reel with a high gear ratio ranging from 6.2:1 to 7:1 due to the long reeling distances. It will give you the speedy line retrieval necessary to control your catch and bring it in. You will also find it extremely useful when you need to quickly retrieve your line for another cast.

But, remember, a high gear ratio can diminish torque. While you gain speed, you lose some power. So the right gear ratio for you depends on your technique, the type of lures, and the target species.

Corrosion Resistance

Saltwater is incredibly harsh and reduces the lifespan of your gear. So it’s crucial to pick a corrosion-resistant rod and reel for surf fishing.

Most surf fishing equipment uses corrosion-resistant materials such as graphite and anodized aluminum. Graphite rods are generally able to handle saltwater conditions quite well. Most composites are also resistant to saltwater corrosion. Reels with sealed stainless steel bearings, IPx5 sealed body and spool also prevent saltwater and sand from getting inside.

Remember, even the most corrosion-resistant rod and reel need proper cleaning. You can stop saltwater corrosion and rust from wrecking your gear by rinsing it off with fresh water after each use.

Budget

Sirf fishing combos range in price from around $50 to over $500.

Budget options in the $50 – $100 range are great for beginners.

Mid-range combos ($100 – $300) offer some premium features, like better materials, without the hefty price tag.

High-end options, $300 and up, come with top-of-the-line features.

Since many anglers looking for rod and reel combos are just starting out or don’t have much experience, I suggest picking a budget or mid-range combo. Most beginners don’t need the features or tech offered by an expensive rod or reel. If you are a beginner, you can check out the Best Fishing Rod and Reel Combo for Beginners if you need more options.

Remember, the right combo for surf fishing doesn’t need to be the most costly. It needs to be the one that suits your style, comfort, and targeted species.

Warranty

I suggest you always consider the peace of mind and benefits of a warranty.

A good brand knows that its relationship with the buyer doesn’t end at the point of purchase. So most leading brands, like Daiwa, Penn, or Shimano offer warranties. But be sure to read the fine print, as warranty terms can vary. A 1-year warranty is pretty standard these days. Some manufacturers offer a 5-year or even a lifetime warranty.

FAQs

How to clean and maintain your surf rods and reels?

Clean your combo after every use. Thoroughly rinse your rod and reel with fresh water and dry them before storing. On the reel, pay particular attention to the drag and spool.

Periodically check for damage. Frequent use can lead to wear and tear. Look out for loose parts, broken guides, stuck lines, etc.

Lubricate moving parts. You can improve your reel’s performance by lubricating its moving parts. But only use the lubricant recommended by the manufacturer.

Store your gear properly. Always store your gear in a cool, dry place as direct sunlight can damage the material. Thus, a rod rack or case can be a useful investment.

What type of rod is best for surf fishing?

Surf rods need more backbone and length than your average freshwater rod. So, the competition is primarily between – spinning rods and baitcasting rods. There are other types like fly fishing and conventional rods, but they are not commonly used in the surf.

Most surf anglers use spinning rods targeting small to medium-sized species. While those targeting larger species swear by baitcasting rods. But the right surf rod for you depends on your personal fishing style and the species you target.

What is the best rod length for surf fishing?

Generally, your surf rod must be long enough to get your bait as far out into the ocean as possible. But the right length largely depends on the specific fish species you’re targeting

Shorter rods around 9 to 10 feet are ideal for smaller species like whiting, pompano, and perch.

Mid-length rods from 10 to 12 feet can handle many small to medium species.

The longest rods from 12 to 14 feet are excellent for targeting larger species or casting in high surf conditions.

Is mono or braid better for surf fishing?

Monofilament, or mono, is a popular choice for many surf anglers due to its high stretchability, affordability, and good knot strength. But it has a larger diameter, which creates more and reduces your casting distance.

Braided lines – often referred to as braid – are known for their strength, thin diameter, and low stretch. Not to mention, braids can take a beating from abrasive underwater structures. But they are usually more visible underwater.

If you’re after a smaller, shy species, then I suggest you pick a mono line due to its low visibility. But if you’re stalking larger, more tenacious fish, you’ll need a braided line.

If you are fishing a heavy surf, the more resilient braided line might be your best bet.

Go for braid also if your fishing area has any underwater structures, like rocks or corals.

But if you are fishing in calm, flat water, you may find a mono line more suitable.

How many yards of line do you need for surf fishing?

As a rule of thumb, I find that 200-300 yards of line usually serves me well. Of course, how many yards of line you need depends on the species you’re targeting and the conditions.

Small to Medium Species: You will find 200-250 yards of line sufficient for small to medium species like whiting or pompano.

Large Species: For larger, stronger species such as kingfish, you will need at least 300-400 yards of line.

Shallow Waters: 200-250 yards of line is usually sufficient if you’re fishing from the shore into shallow waters.

Deep Waters: You’ll need around 300-400 yards of line for fishing from a pier or jetty into deeper waters.

What test fishing line should I use for surf fishing?

Generally, the rule of thumb is to use a 15 to 20 lb test line for fish in the 5 to 20 pounds range. I find it ideal for most species encountered during surf fishing.

But, if you’re after larger species, like bluefish or tarpons, you will need a 30 to 50-lb test line.

A heavier line doesn’t mean you’ll land more fish. Remember, a thicker line also means it’s more visible to fish. So sometimes even lighter test lines in the 10 to 12 lb range can give you an advantage. They’re less visible to the fish so you can present your bait or lure in a more natural.

My Verdict

Penn Battle III is the Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combo as per our reviews. But all the options on our list can help you get the job done.

Tailored Tackle is a great alternative if you need to cast a long distance. Daiwa D-Wave is less expensive than Tailored Tackle or Penn Battle III combo yet it comes with an excellent saltwater rod and reel.

You can pick Ugly Stik Bigwater or Okuma Tundra if you are a beginner. Dr.Fish comes with almost everything required for surf fishing. Another quality rod and reel combo is the Penn Spinfisher VI.

The Daiwa BG combo is an excellent choice if you need a top-quality reel. While the Sea Striker is very attractive due to its extremely low price point.

I hope you liked our pick of the Best Surf Fishing Rod and Reel Combos. But I understand that with the range of surf combos available on the market, choosing one could be quite a task. So feel free to contact us if you need any more advice or insights to help you pick the right combo. I am here to answer all your queries even about any nitty-gritty details.