I use braid-> spro swivel-> ~ 6' 60lb mono-> breakaway clip. Not too big of a fan of the TA clips- they're nice, but pricey... I haven't had a large breakaway show the slightest sign of opening, and if the knot is tightened down fully they don't slip. Braid to swivel gets a palomar, everything else gets a clinch. If I'm using light tackle (schoolies) I use a uni-uni with my braid to some flyfishing tippet, 0x flourocarbon (~16 lb test).
I haven't needed to run any crazy long shock leaders while surfcasting. But on my cod/tog rigs that can have ~10-30' of shock leader, I like to use the slim beauty knot.
MC- Why just tie direct? Some lures perform better with the added freedom of movement a clip gives, while others (bucktails mainly) I like to tie direct.
I think you can trim the tag ends very close. Has anyone tried the Loon Knot Sense in a surfcasting setting? It's a fly fishing product made specifically for strengthening and smoothing knots, so they don't get hung up on guides.
UV Knot Sense - UV Gear Care - Loon Outdoors ~ Environmentally Friendly Fly Fishing Gear & Accessories Apply a little and cure instantly with a uv light. Not an option for the wetsuiter, but for someone wading it could be an option. Or just while getting your gear ready at home.