Surf fishing is a popular activity that involves casting your line from the shore into the ocean to catch fish that are feeding near the beach. One of the key factors to a successful surf fishing trip is having the right gear, including the right rig. In this article, we will discuss the best rigs for surf fishing to help you catch more fish on your next trip.
What is a surf fishing rig?
A surf fishing rig is a type of fishing setup that is specifically designed for fishing in the surf zone, which is the area where the waves break onto the shore. Surf fishing rigs typically consist of a mainline, leader, hooks, sinkers, and swivels. There are many different types of surf fishing rigs, each designed for a specific type of fishing and species of fish.
The choice of rig ultimately depends on the conditions of the surf, the type of fish you are targeting, and the bait you plan to use. Some of the most popular surf fishing rigs include the fish finder rig, Carolina rig, pompano rig, and the double dropper rig. By choosing the right rig and using the appropriate bait and technique, anglers can increase their chances of catching fish while surf fishing.
The Best Rigs for Surf Fishing
Let’s get into the list. These are in no particular order, but my favorite rig is the fish finder rig. Let’s start with that one.
Fish Finder Rig
The Fish Finder Rig is another popular rig used for surf fishing. It consists of a sliding egg sinker, a swivel, a leader, and a hook. The egg sinker is threaded onto the mainline, followed by a bead and a swivel. A leader is then attached to the swivel and a hook is attached to the end of the leader. The bait is then threaded onto the hook.

The Fish Finder Rig is effective for fishing in areas with strong currents or waves. The sliding sinker allows the bait to move with the current, while the swivel keeps the mainline from twisting. This rig is particularly effective for catching striped bass and bluefish.
Carolina Rig
The Carolina Rig is a popular rig used for surf fishing because it allows the bait to move more naturally in the water. It consists of a sliding egg sinker, a swivel, a leader, and a hook. The egg sinker is threaded onto the mainline, followed by a bead and a swivel. A leader is then attached to the swivel and a hook is attached to the end of the leader. The bait is then threaded onto the hook.
The Carolina Rig allows the bait to move freely in the water, making it more appealing to fish. The weight of the sinker keeps the bait close to the bottom where many fish species feed. This rig is particularly effective for catching redfish, flounder, and speckled trout.
High-Low Rig
The High-Low Rig is a simple but effective rig that consists of two hooks tied to dropper loops. The dropper loops are tied onto the mainline, with the hooks facing in opposite directions. The top hook is usually tied about 18 inches above the sinker, while the bottom hook is tied about 6 inches above the sinker.
The High-Low Rig is effective for catching a variety of species, including flounder, sea trout, and bluefish. The two hooks allow you to fish with two baits at the same time, increasing your chances of catching a fish.
Pompano Rig
The Pompano Rig is a popular rig used for catching pompano, a popular surf fishing species. It consists of a series of small hooks tied to dropper loops, with a weight at the bottom. The hooks are usually baited with sand fleas or other small crustaceans that pompano feed on.
The Pompano Rig is effective for catching pompano, but it can also be used to catch other species such as whiting and black drum. This rig is particularly effective in areas with sandy bottoms.

Double Drop Rig
The Double Drop Rig is similar to the High-Low Rig but with two dropper loops and three hooks. The top hook is usually tied about 18 inches above the sinker, while the two bottom hooks are tied about 6 inches above the sinker.
The Double Drop Rig is effective for catching multiple fish species at the same time, including flounder, sea trout, and bluefish. The multiple hooks also increase your chances of catching a fish.
Wrapping up
When it comes to surf fishing, having the right rig can make all the difference. Choosing the right rig for the conditions and the type of fish you are targeting can greatly increase your chances of success. Whether you are using a basic fish finder rig or a more complex pompano rig, make sure to rig it correctly and use the appropriate bait to entice the fish.
With the right rig and technique, you can have a successful day of surf fishing and come home with a cooler full of fish.
Frequently asked rig questions
You can buy surf fishing rigs at fishing tackle shops that are located near a beach.
Sporting goods stores may also carry a selection of pre-made rigs, but their selection may be more limited compared to a dedicated fishing tackle shop.
Online retailers such as Amazon, Bass Pro Shops, and TackleDirect also offer a wide variety of pre-made rigs for surf fishing,.
Yes, making your own surf fishing rigs can be cheaper than buying pre-made ones. This is because you can purchase the individual components, such as hooks, swivels, and sinkers, in bulk at a lower cost. Additionally, by making your own rigs, you can customize them to suit your specific needs and the conditions of the surf.
However, it is important to keep in mind that making your own surf fishing rigs requires some knowledge of fishing knots and rigging techniques, as well as the appropriate tools and materials. If you are new to surf fishing or lack experience with rigging, it may be worth investing in pre-made rigs until you feel more confident in your abilities.
Fishing Fanatiks is reader-supported. If you buy via the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Hello! My name is Tim and I’ve been fishing for over 30 years. I’ve learned a lot about fishing during that time and I love sharing that knowledge with others. I’m also a member of the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). Thanks for checking out the site!