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I owe a huge debt to a few guys from Jersey/Philadelphia (maybe some on this board) who pointed me in the right direction one early June morning at Race Point in 99.
I was there with a buddy for our first ever surf casting attempt. I had read Daignault's books and thought I was ready, my buddy flew in from CA to PTown and we headed out to the Race.
It was a moon tide in early June and when we hit our spot in the early morning, we found 4 guys already there and on fish. I would guess they were not happy to see us as we had not a clue. We showed up in bathing suits and fished barefoot -- the water was COLD. We were however respectful and while we were ill-equipped, we didn't screw up their action.
We saw they were fishing sand eels on hi-lo rigs and while we didn't have any hi-lo rigs, I did tie a rudimentary fishfinder rig and we had sand eels. I put away the "finnish swimmers" described by FD as it would not have worked with the group already there.
These guys showed us patiently, and with a lot of laughs, how to cast to the rip and not tangle, and in a few breaks how to tie a hi-lo rig. We each caught a keeper that morning (over 36") and were thrilled. We managed to work through the ripping current by walking in turn and not tangling.
That afternoon, I tied a dozen hi-lo rigs, bought sinkers and hooks, and prepped for the morning. We arrived at the same time and the same group of guys were there. Sand eels were all over the beach, even the gulls were full. We all immediately got in to fish, all 32" and larger. By the time the tide pushed us back, My buddy and I had 6 keepers each up to 42" and numerous others. The group had done as well or better. It was the single best day of fishing I have ever had.
Those guys taught me more in those two outings than all the books, internet sites, etc. have together and I am forever greatful. As a result, I try to help others to the extent I can when the situation arises if they show a desire to learn, as we did. To me this only really applies when I'm fishing as it needs to be hands on and you need to see how someone approaches it. Not one for talking in the tackle shop etc.
As for all the great info here, I use it to help me with my fishing which, due to limited time from family, is usually confined to a few spots. I incorporate ideas, techniques and apply it. Not one for chasing spots, although if the opportunity to fish a particular location arises, I'll try to remember what I've heard to get started.
Good topic.
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