I have another question. What are "the best" small casting and spinning reels for fishing the surf line out to the first and second gut? I have some older reels and am thinking about updating. As with casting and many other things, I would appreciate your suggestions.

Thanks, guys!

Ray

I'm not sure exactly what you are asking here. What I am talking about it just casting into the surf through or to the first and second gut on light tackle, 7', light weight rods and small reels, for reds, trout, or whatever is there, both conventional casting and spinning gear.

I stand on the beach at water's edge or in the surf, wading through the first and often into the second gut, casting as I go for lighter, smaller fish, while I've got long rods out.

Ray

Lots of options, some personal and some subjective favorites. Which are best suited for what you are doing comes down to size and brand preferences, and this can vary depending upon application needs, line test, size and type fish you are going after. We've got clients who are into working with 6# line for surf perch all the way up to (believe it or not) use of Penn International 130's loaded with 200# Spectra for land-based sharking. Some guys strongly prefer Van Staal spinners, some Penn Battle's on the spinning side of things. Still others who want a conventional reel range from small baitcasters from Abu, Daiwa's Coastal, Avet's, Newells and on from there. Line test required is a big question, as well as what you are trying to catch.

I can confirm that there are indeed sharks in them thar hills . . .well, sandbars anyways.

For fishing the guts, I would suggest not wading with any bait in your pocket or on your clothes.

In terms of tackle, it depends on the line, how far you are casting and how far the fish is running.

I like the idea of an 8' / 1/2 - 2 oz surf spinning rod with 6 to 10# mono, and something a bit heavier at 9' / 1-5 oz, either spinning or conventional. I am partial to Fin Nor FS 30/40/60 or equivalent in Penn CQR.

If you are interested in smallish sharks and rays, you can surf cast for them with 4/0 class rods and reels. Penn 113W on a XH 11' or 12' rod is considered entry.

If you are interested in Big Hungry with aforesaid Umlimited tackle, err, that would be thread hijacking!

On the Texas coast, you can have sharks for 1 foot to 10 to 12 feet in the first and second gut, depending on the time and conditions. And, they bump you or swim nearby regularly.