Surf fishing is a style of fishing where the angler casts out into the ocean with waves crashing around him. Often the angler is standing knee high in the surf, balancing on reef or rock formations. Surf fishing is a common style among Hawaii's fishing enthusiasts, who find easy access to fertile fishing spots by casting just beyond the surf.
Method
Surf fishing requires the angler to hold the rod coming over the top of the handle to prevent twisting in the surf. Anglers cast either from the side or over their heads to loft the bait as far as 200 feet out into the ocean. The shores of Hawaii have many reefs close to shore with sandbars creating "highways" of larger predators feeding off reef fish. The goal of the loft is to reach the edge of the reef where the fisherman has a higher likelihood of attracting a larger catch.
Gear
Rods are designed specifically for surf fishing so the rod backbone is under the rod adding to the power of the rod and the ability of the angler to pull the fish in amidst the surf. There are different types of sinkers used to drop the bait down in different surf conditions and water depths. Because surf fisherman are walking on the rocks, it is wise to wear tennis shoes or reef walkers to maintain traction and prevent injury.
Bait
There are four basic methods of surf fish baiting around the world: chunking, bait strips, clam and worms and live lining. Although clams and worms are not effective in most warm-water shores, live lining with squid, mackerel and eel is effective. Chunking uses larger steaks from baitfish such as aku that might attract larger fish offshore. Bait strips uses a smaller strip of the baitfish meat while keeping the head on to attract fish.
Locations
Surf fishing in the islands has abundant opportunities. Kona Coast State Park on the Big Island is a favorite local spot for trevally or grouper. Ewa Beach on Oahu is a good spot for uku, moi and omilo. The Napali Coast on Kauai has many fertile fishing spots with ulua, papio and moi. Maui has popular fishing spots near Kihei. Regardless of what island you are on, there are ample beaches where you can cast a line.
Considerations
There is no license required for surf fishing in Hawaii. As long as the beach is not a private beach or protected waters, you may fish there. Gain permission from private beach owners to access the ocean. Never turn your back on the ocean, especially when surf fishing where you are already holding your fear creating an imbalance. Be aware of fish patterns and changes in behavior suggestion dangerous predators such as tiger sharks feeding at the reef edges. Always be considerate when surf fishing in areas where other beach-goers are.
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