What Lures to Use for Shore Fishing?

Shore or surf fishing is fast becoming one of the most popular types of fishing.

The options of fishing from shore are endless, with the opportunity to catch different species of fish in deeper water or on lakes and river banks.

Before you head off on your shore or surf fishing experience, there are a few things you need to know about and consider to make your trip worthwhile.

From the best types of artificial lures to the wide variety of fish species, we can make your next trip a game-changer.

A variety of lures to choose from

Contents

What is Shore or Surf Fishing?

Fishing from the shore is done either on the shores of a body of water or on the beach’s shoreline.

If you prefer deep water fishing, shore fishing is for you.

There are many types of surf fishing lures and surf fishing rods to choose from.

Shore fishing is land-based and requires a longer rod to achieve a greater casting distance.

You can, however, use a shorter rod and add the necessary weights and artificial lures onto the rod to help you achieve the casting distance necessary to find those hidden fish that tend to congregate at 50 to 150m from the shore.

Let’s take a look at the lures you can use for shore fishing, as well as the type of natural or artificial bait you would use to catch the fish of your choice.

Artificial shrimp is just one example of a bait you would typically use.

Men fishing in sunset and relaxing and enjoying hobby

The Best Lures for Shore or Surf Fishing

A lure does exactly what it is supposed to do: lure fish to your baited hook.

There are different types of lures that can help you hook different species of fish and increase your catch rate.

Lures virtually attract the fish to your hook and are useful when combined with artificial bait when natural bait is not available.

The most common lures to use for shore fishing are:

  • Spoons
  • Jigs
  • Poppers

#1: Spoons

Spoon fishing lures have absolutely nothing to do with the cutlery in your kitchen drawer.

Named for their shape, spoons are curved pieces of metal with a hook attached to the end.

They are popular and available in a wide variety of assorted colors and color patterns.

Most anglers prefer a basic silver spoon, as it imitates the bait fish of the fish species you will most likely hook when shore fishing.

Spoons are heavier than other lures and give you a great casting distance.

They are also the most effective lures to use in large areas and can be used by beginner or experienced anglers.

#2: Jigs

A jig lure is especially effective for blind casting or when you cannot see any fish from the surface of the water.

This lure got its name from the “jig” or bounce you need to do once you have cast your line.

To lure those sneaky fish hiding in deep troughs just off the shoreline, you cast and then wiggle or jig your line to imitate the movement of a bait fish.

This, in turn, lures the fish to your hook. Many anglers choose the white bucktail jig for its great performance and luring capabilities.

Jigs are also available in an assortment of color patterns and shapes and are a great option for anglers in any fishing situation.

#3: Poppers

No, we are not referring to the popular party accessory that shoots confetti all over your house.

Poppers are big or small pieces of wood or plastic that are used to lure fish to your hook.

They are shaped like smaller bait fish, and to a hungry prey look like a wounded fish that makes for an easy target.

Pencil poppers are especially popular as they mimic the small silver bait fish that larger fish feed on.

Poppers are designed to float on the surface of the water and bob down slightly when a fish has taken the bait.

This gives the angler a chance to see the “strike” or catch in action.

Poppers are available in a wide variety of sizes and can be found at any tackle shop.

Keep a few of these lures in your tackle box at all times.

How to Select the Best Lure: A Guide to Lures

Choosing which lure to use can be a bit tricky if you are new to shore or surf fishing.

With many factors to consider, selecting a lure can mean the difference between a catch and a missed opportunity.

Before you choose the wrong lure and end up with nothing to show at the end of the day, give our selection guide a read and follow our tips on selecting the best lure for your fishing trip.

Tip #1: Match the lure to the type of fish you are trying to catch

If you are fishing on the shore of a beach, it is handy to know the type of fish that are dominant in that area.

Once you know this, choosing a lure is easy.

Poppers are always a great idea as they mimic the bait fish of most saltwater fish.

Tip #2: Match the lure to the color of the water

This might sound odd, as you would think a lure should be bright and colorful to attract a fish.

But, the rule of thumb when it comes to the color of your lure is to match it as close to the color of the water as possible.

Poppers, jigs, and spoons are available in a variety of colors to match any body of water.

Tip #3: Take note of the water temperature

Colder water makes for lazy fish who will try and get the most food while exerting as little energy as possible.

Use bigger lures to attract these fish.

Tip #4: Go with what you know

While having a large selection of lures might seem like a good idea, there is absolutely nothing wrong with using the lure you would use for any other type of fishing.

This is a time when tried and tested really comes into play, so use what you are most comfortable with. If you have had success with a particular type of lure, stick to it.

Tip #5: Keep a variety in your tackle box

Jigs, spoons, and poppers can all be used to catch most fish when shore or surf fishing.

Keep a few of each in your tackle box, ensuring you have different sizes, colors, and weights available.

Once you get the hang of shore fishing, choosing a lure will become second nature.

If you are unsure of which lures are the best, speak to the sales representative at your local tackle shop, or read more about lures on one of the many online fishing forums available.

Conclusion

Selecting the best lure for shore or surf fishing need not cause you to panic.

By following the handy tips we have laid out above, which include matching the color of the lure to the water, choosing a lure based on what fish you are hoping to catch, and paying close attention to the temperature of the water, you can easily choose the best lure for your next fishing trip.

If you want to know even more about shore fishing or learn a few tips and tricks, there are a large number of online fishing forums where you can read about the gear anglers prefer, as well as where the best spots for shore fishing are.

Happy fishing!