Saltwater Fishing from the Pier and Surf: A Complete Starter Guide

Saltwater fishing from shore is one of the most accessible ways to catch big, hard-fighting fish. Here is how to get started.

Gear basics

• Pier rod: 7 to 8 foot medium-heavy rod with a 3000 to 5000 sealed spinning reel.
• Surf rod: 9 to 12 foot rod with a 5000 to 8000 reel for long casts past the breakers.
• Line: 20 to 30 lb braid with a fluorocarbon or shock leader.

Saltwater is hard on gear, so choose corrosion-resistant reels and rinse everything with fresh water after each trip. Browse saltwater fishing gear.

Rigs and lures

• Bottom rigs with fresh bait for whiting, pompano, croaker and more.
• Metal jigs and spoons to cast far and cover water.
• Soft paddletails on jigheads for inshore species.
• Squid jigs at night under pier lights.

Read the beach

Look for troughs between sandbars, rip currents, and points where waves break differently. Fish use these to ambush bait.

Timing

Moving water is key. The hours around a tide change, especially the first part of an incoming tide, are often best. Combine that with dawn, dusk or a solunar major period from our bite forecast.

Night pier tip

An underwater LED light draws baitfish in, and predators follow. Always check local rules for licenses, size limits and pier regulations.