
Fishing the surf is more popular than ever in Florida, but success involves understanding the seasons, choosing the right beach for the species desired, reading the water, knowing the tides, presenting baits and lures, and even flies, and of course, mastering various bait rigs and more.I surf fish extensively from Hobe Sound to Sebastian Inlet, year-round.
Summer means snook on light tackle and fly, with sight fishing the focus when conditions warrant. Fall through spring sees an influx of many gamefish and good table fish. Light tackle and traditional surf tackle is used, and you can expect a mix of pompano, whiting, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, croaker, permit and other surprises occasionally. My specialty is pompano with surf rods in the 10- to 13-foot class. There's no better way to catch this gourmet delight, and once you master the tackle and bait presentation, you'll be in that heralded ten percent.
A half or full day trip will involve some travel between Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River county beach accesses to stay on the fish. All tackle is provided, and hands-on instruction is the focus. On-the-spot casting lessons with surf tackle is included. This is a great low-key shore fishing trip that is ideal for kids over 12 years old, too. I can fish one or two anglers.

Carting rods and gear to a favorite stretch of beach.

A trio of pompano taken on sand fleas.

Fresh caught sand fleas are prime baits for pompano.

Conventional surf rod set in a sand spike.

A "double" hookup of tasty whiting.

Fellow surf angler running to a rod after a strike.

Pompano displayed atop sand flea rake.

Custom 13-foot Lamiglas surf rod built by Jensen Beach Florida rodmaker Ward Woodruff (772) 334-1708.