How to build a dependable surf rig

A surf rig has to stay where you put it. A pyramid sinker holds better than a round weight once the wash starts moving the bait. StoutFin lists salt-rated surf and pompano rigs calibrated for beach current. Start with the lighter rig and go up only when that rig will not hold. This note does not assign one of those weights to a beach.

Keep the leader short enough that the bait stays near the sinker in the sweep, and match the hook to the bait. A pompano rig is for pompano. It is not a deep-drop snapper rig. A shock leader takes the cast and the abrasion; it is not the same thing as the main line on the reel.

Plant the rod in a sand spike, not in a boat holder and not on a garage rack. After salt water, rinse the spike, the pliers, and the reel before they go in the car.