For general purpose surf fishing I recommend a 4000 to 6000 series spinning reel paired with 15# to 25# braided line. A setup in this range will land 90% of the common beach dwelling species you are likely to encounter. However, the real answer will depend heavily on the type of fish you are targeting and the style of fishing you are doing.
1000 – 3000
In this range I highly recommend Shimano's Stradic 2500HGFL. This reel is very high quality for its price point and very comfortable to handle. I pair this reel with about 200 yds of 8# or 150 yds of 10# Berkley X5 braid.
4000 – 6000
This is your bread and butter range for surf fishing. This range will bring home everything from small whiting to Pompano, slot Reds to monster Snook, Tarpon, and even small shark. There are reels in this range in many price points but I recommend Shimano's Saragosa 5000SW or Baitrunner 6000D. I pair either of these with 20# Berkley X5 braid.
8000 – 10000
If you are targeting some big fish like big tarpon or shark you may need to step up you gear to increase your landing chances. I prefer the Shimano Baitrunner 8000D in this category and especially like the secondary drag system that will allow fish to take live bait more effectively.
In our article, Best Saltwater Spinning Reels, we talk about reels in greater detail. Give it a read!
Tight lines and high tides, y'all!
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