Do I really need a 15 or 16ft surf-rod and long-cast reel?

[mingle]

Hi guys,

I'm starting to get back into land-based fishing and will be spending more time surf and rocks fishing.

I have a couple a 12ft surf rods, but have an itch for a longer rod (don't we all?). However, is there
any benefit to be gained from the extra 3 or 4ft?

The Okuma X-factor 16ft graphite rod looks good and costs around $199 (that's a lot to me).
A Shakespeare Ugly Stik gold 15ft is around $160, but I guess would be a bit heavier.

I'm thinking of pairing the rod with a Penn Spinfisher V 7500LC (long cast) reel.

Main target species would be gummies and bigger salmon off the beach .

Cheers,

Mike.

[smile0784]

Not really

[KeenAds]

Hi Mike, obviously your going to be able to cast a little further with a 15 or 16 foot rod. However you don't need to cast to the horizon, not sure on your experience but learn how to read a beach and look for the gutters and structures as sometimes the fish will be at your feet and you will get on to some fish. Try to always fish dawn or dusk on a rising tide.

[cantcatchem]

Go the graphite one and yes you will cast longer with a longer rod after you practice a bit, don't get a fibreglass of that size coz it will be too heavy

[Lightningx]

I’d just use the 2 12 footers you have if I were you

[Sinsemilla]

Don't worry about that itch for more length! A lot of land based fisherman have this problem. Apparently it's all about your technique. So save your cash and work on your technique!

This also works for LB fishing..

Anth

[ducky]

Agree with Anth. You’ll probably get more distance from working on your technique than you would from a larger rod.

I forgot the blokes username but there’s a surfcasting maniac on this forum. Jeremy. He has given a few member a hand getting more distance with their casting.

[FishnMiss]

Ask Jeremy Schrader I think he uses this site .
A legend at long range casting :thumbsup:

[Kenle]

Or get a drone to drop your line for you. Its the new sensation and you can use your current 12 ft. Drone may cost a bit but can be a great investment

[4liters]

Off the rocks down your way definitely not. Off the beach the extra length may be handy at times to keep the line above the shore break