Best Bait and Rigs for the O.C. Surf

[SevernaParkFishHawk]

This time of year what is the most productive method of fishing the O.C. surf and with what baits and rigs? Any advice would be appreciated.

[trowpa]

Welcome Fishhawk!

What are you looking to catch? For the most versatility, a fish finder rig is probably most common - with chunk of bunker. However you can put whatever bait you want on that rig. That will work for the stripers...don't think many people hope for Drum in OC surf (too far north). Do a search on the forum - plenty of pics and descriptions of that rig. I use circle hooks matched to bait size(bunker chunks 8/0 - 10/0 Owner SSWs), 80lb test floro to swivel, then HD(blue)slider on 40-50lb mono shock. However, there are many variations. Again - do a search.

If targeting blues, I'll put a rod out with a full mullet rig as well. Of course, they'll hit the bunker chunks too...

For any kingfish around, I use any hi-lo rigs w/ small j-hooks. Bait w/ fishbites or small chunks.

Lots of people in OC surf use squid too -as an "all around bait"

Never fished for flounder in the surf, perhaps someone else can chime in on that one...

[fish-aholic]

Originally Posted by trowpa

Welcome Fishhawk!

What are you looking to catch? For the most versatility, a fish finder rig is probably most common - with chunk of bunker. However you can put whatever bait you want on that rig. That will work for the stripers...don't think many people hope for Drum in OC surf (too far north). Do a search on the forum - plenty of pics and descriptions of that rig. I use circle hooks matched to bait size(bunker chunks 8/0 - 10/0 Owner SSWs), 80lb test floro to swivel, then HD(blue)slider on 40-50lb mono shock. However, there are many variations. Again - do a search.

If targeting blues, I'll put a rod out with a full mullet rig as well. Of course, they'll hit the bunker chunks too...

For any kingfish around, I use any hi-lo rigs w/ small j-hooks. Bait w/ fishbites or small chunks.

Lots of people in OC surf use squid too -as an "all around bait"

Never fished for flounder in the surf, perhaps someone else can chime in on that one...

Great stuff Steve, I remember it wasn't too long ago you were asking questions like this....now you're answering like a pro. As far as flounder, I'd try a flounder rig, you can pick them up from Bev at harbor tackle, she has a nice selection of hand tied rigs....Tipped with a minnow or a strip of cut bait. Flounder like moving water.....I don't think I've ever caught one at slack tide....I don't typically fish for them in the surf. Now, don't forget Togs, you won't catch them in the surf, but the bulkheads, inlets and jetties you should be able to start locating them. You should also be able to catch some stripers shorts in the inlets or the Rt 50 bridge. Its possible you might see the beginnings of the Striper run here in the next couple weeks, but I wouldn't hold my breath for one. Blues will probably be your big fish to catch. As the water cools they will start getting bigger. They are an absolute blast to catch. They have tiny sharp teeth and will cut through your line in an instant, so if you begin to target them specifically, make sure you take appropriate action. If you happen across a blitz of bluefish on the beach, break out anything shiney, throw on a steel leader and start casting to them. They will tear it up and you will have a blast, especially if you have a lighter action rod. A 20" blue will give you a nice fight on a med action rod. Hope that helps, like I said, don't necessarily focus on the surf, remember the inlets, bulkheads and jetties too.....GL and welcome