Is a long cast important when surf fishing?

[Pete_G]

The fish are where the fish are, and that's where your cast needs to be. It's stating the obvious, but that's how I've always operated. Sometimes point blank, sometimes far away...

[capecodkid]

Sometimes the fish can be out feeding 500ft off and sometimes they can be right in the wash 5ft out. All depends on the spot and conditions.

[baldwin]

Interpretation of all above replies:
Yes, long casts are important when fish are out far.
No, they're not important when fish are in close.

Start casting just beyond the first wave and parallel to shore before entering the water, then gradually cover the water farther and farther out.