Siesta Key/Surf Fishing Help

[Zvizzle]

Good morning guys,

I'll be in Siesta Key first week of August and was wanting to try my hand at some surf fishing, I tried last year and didn't even get a bite. I was looking to get a rod specifically for this that won't break the bank but will be worth my time. I found a few 11 ft. Ugly Stiks on craigs but they are "Heavy Action" does this matter? I usually like medium action on my rods.

Any other help such where to fish near Siesta Key, I'll be just north of Pointe of Rocks on Cresent beach or specific set ups that you guys see the most fit.

As far as gear I have a 6'6" & 7" Ugly Stik, & 5500 Spinfisher, 6000 Fierce. \


Thank you guys for all your jokes & help on the forum!
Zak

[krash]

If Surf fishing.. its mostly sand bottom and a long long way out to water deeper than 10', so if the plan is to chuck bait and wait be prepared for shark bite, best time would be night.
When I'm in areas like that my plan is, or would be, walking the beach casting for Snook at dawn or dusk. I use 400 series reels on 7' medium fast action rod, 20 or 25 pound braid (or lighter) with fluro leader, casting light colored soft plastics or sub surface hard lures like the Miro-dine lures, maybe a top-dog if its flat calm. I have been going to Long Boat key last week of Aug. for a few years now and do pretty well with Snook, and there is always lady Fish and Jacks mixed in attacking the bait schools.

[Zvizzle]

Thanks for the help Krash!

[Zvizzle]

Anyone else?

[krash]

For an idea of what being caught, although by boat, check Rick Grasset or JM Snooky's web sites or FB pages, these are rather honest local guides in that area. I have fished with Rick, and would again next time I visit.

Also check out Todd Terrill, kayak, fishnfunkayaks, guide in the Sarasota area. I think JM Snooky also does kayak trips.

If its in your budget take a kayak fishing trip with Todd, you actually spot a spot for wade casting.

If you can find "BlueFish in ny", Keith, he moved over to that area a few years ago and disappeared from this board, but just before disappearing he was posting so goo dinof on Wade fishing in the Sarasota area.