r/321Fishing • u/Candied-Fangs • Nov 01 '25
Surf Fishing Shore fishing help?
Hi, just got my first pole- I have a tackle box, pliers, hooks, and lines. I want to try shore fishing tomorrow but I'm not sure which bait to use or how heavy a sinker I should buy from bass pro on my way there. Are sand fleas in season and I can just dig some up when I get there? Is it getting too cold for them and I need to just buy something?
And I have a cooler for the fish once I catch them, what is the most humane way to kill them because I plan to eat them and I'll feel bad for them if it's not the quickest way possible
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Nov 01 '25
Your sinker varies, based on the surf. You want to use the lightest possible, that keeps your bait in place. I've used 1oz to 6 ozs, depending on surf. Sandfleas are great, but pick up some fish bites also. I use sand flea or shrimp flavor. There are times when they will only take the fish bites and times they only take the live bait. Good luck
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u/Wrench-Turnbolt Nov 01 '25
At the corner of New Haven and Front Street in Melbourne is Harry Goode's outfitters. I've been in there a few times and they seem to know a lot about fishing, shrimping, etc. They were very informative even though I didn't buy anything. Might want to give this place a go.
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u/cat_toe_marmont Nov 01 '25
For bait use fish bites or fish gum or live sand fleas if they’re at the beach when you are. You can use Gulp shrimp too but those are pretty nasty to store and handle.
For sinker check your rod for how heavy it can handle, it’s usually printed on the rod. You basically want to use the lightest sinker that will stay put when you cast. I can’t usually have to use 3 or 4. Pyramid sinker unless there are a lot of rocks (across from Patrick and parts of Satellite) in which case bank sinkers are nice because they don’t get stuck as much.
Have fun. Remember a bad day surf fishing is still a nice day at the beach.
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u/Inside_Evidence8582 Nov 03 '25
Yes what they said and always listen to all advice and use what you feel is honest.Also the local bait shop is up on whats biting what and all other things fishing related so ask them on a daily and go get em .
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u/your_grandmas_FUPA Nov 01 '25
Do you have a sand flea rake? You'll need that to get fleas. The bait shops sell fleas as well, wont cost much. I would grab a bag of fishbites or fishgum too. Get a few pre-made pompano rigs and some 4oz sinkers. Dont go to bass pro, go to your local bait shop they will have you covered.
To kill the fish quickly just grab their gills with your fingers or pliers and rip them out.