While there are probably many sites dedicated to “how to surf fish,” I want to talk about “why” we surf fish. Growing up in the 70’s and 80’s in the Upstate of South Carolina, my family took numerous trips to the beach. We usually took in the sand, waves, seafood restaurants and amusement parks but we NEVER surf fished. Our fishing was contained to Upstate freshwater lakes.
Fast forward to May 2008. I was sitting at a business luncheon on a sidewalk café in Washington, D.C., not far from the Capitol Building. An older gentlemen at the luncheon saying that he had applied for an alligator tag through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). Who knew that South Carolina had an alligator season – and that it had just opened the previous year.
As an avid outdoorsman, I was intrigued with idea of hunting an alligator. The element of danger and novelty was appealing. When I returned to the hotel room in DC that afternoon, I went to the SCDNR website and applied for an alligator tag. As fate would have it, I was notified in July that I was selected for an alligator tag for a fee of $100.
After receiving notification, I pursued my college football buddies to ascertain their interest in coordinating an alligator hunt during the season duration of mid-September to mid-October. Four college teammates and my brother-in-law joined the adventure. While we all had experience in hunting and fishing – none with alligators. How do we learn anything these days? We go to YouTube!! “Swamp People” had been out a couple of years, but the way they hunt gators in Louisiana is not allowed in South Carolina. YouTube quickly became our tutorial.
You are probably wondering what any of this had to do with surf fishing – let’s discuss. We decided to gator hunt in the Edisto Island area, particular the lower Edisto River. Since we were staying beachfront and the home had fishing rods and tackle, we decided to attempt surf fishing. I had seen people surf fish but did not know what I was missing!! Sitting in camp chairs with rods in rod holders which are driven into the sand and having a cold drink with great friends is very difficult to beat. And, oh yeah, some great tunes playing to take us down memory lane enhanced our relaxation.
I really don’t know how many or what we caught that day (some whiting, croakers, etc.), but it didn’t matter. We were on Edisto Beach on an early October day relishing the sound of the waves, warm sun, smell of the sea, and an occasional catch. For me, no other hunting or fishing endeavor is more pleasing to all the senses and relaxing at the same time.
On your next visit to the cost, especially the beaches of the Southeast, I encourage you to give surf fishing a try. It is not expensive and kids can participate as well. Occasionally, you will catch a shark or sting ray which brings maximum excitement to kids and those passing by. Most importantly, enjoy the experience and don’t focus on what type or how many fish you catch. Rest assured knowingRedBone Outdoors will bring strong content to future posts about “how to surf fish effectively.” Until then, slow down a bit and enjoy some hours of surf fishing on your next beach trip. Don’t forget to share your experience.
- Tutorial
- August 14, 2022
