Is a long cast important when surf fishing?

[Saltheart]

having bthe ability to make a long cast when needed is important. You don't use it all the time but when you need it , its nice to be able to do it.

[GonnaCatchABig1]

Originally Posted by Saltheart

having bthe ability to make a long cast when needed is important. You don't use it all the time but when you need it , its nice to be able to do it.

QFT

i have been to spot where all you need is a 20-30 ft cast. my current spot requires an about 65 - 85 yrd casts. so even though you wont always use it. it's definitely better to be able to do.

[BigFish]

Depends most whether you are fishing bait, be it chunk bait or live bait, plugs/artificials and how far out the strike zone may be!

Never heard of any of the distance casting champions putting more large fish on the beach than anyone else!

[steve]

I suppose the longer the cast the more water covered but I HAVE FOUND REAL LONG CASTS ARE NOT REALLY NECESSARY IN THE SURF , IN GENERAL, PARTICULARLY AFTER DARK. BESIDES HOW FAR CAN YOU CAST A LIVE EEL OR SOFT PLASTIC-- FAR ENOUGH TO CATCH ALOT OF FISH FOR THE MOST PART.

[eelman]

Originally Posted by steve

I suppose the longer the cast the more water covered but I HAVE FOUND REAL LONG CASTS ARE NOT REALLY NECESSARY IN THE SURF , IN GENERAL, PARTICULARLY AFTER DARK. BESIDES HOW FAR CAN YOU CAST A LIVE EEL OR SOFT PLASTIC-- FAR ENOUGH TO CATCH ALOT OF FISH FOR THE MOST PART.

Yup, most fish are caught at your feet

[MAC]

To me it depends on where you are fishing.

[numbskull]

You can cover more water with long casts, but how you go about it is important. If you start with a long cast, your retrieve will spook any fish that is directly between you and the plug, since bait fish do not swim directly at predators. You are better off to start with shorter casts/retrieves and work your way out. I'm convinced the splash the plug makes when it lands attracts more fish than the rest of the retrieve. Also, make your first casts to one side of your spot and work across, rather than straight out then side to side. You will spook less fish this way......so when you get skunked you can blame the plug and not your technique. So says me who needs every excuse he can find these days.

[Slingah]

Originally Posted by MAC

To me it depends on where you are fishing.

same here....one place I fish it's a short window at the end of your cast at dead low.....others it's at your feet...
so it depends....