If the surfcaster plays it safe and fishes smart, fall storms can produce epic fishing opportunities.
As we progress deeper into the fall run, it becomes increasingly important for the surfcaster to be tuned in to the weather and ready for any kind of stormy weather Mother Nature might have in store for the coastline. Hurricanes, nor’easters and various low pressure weather systems may be on the table and can deliver a punch to the beaches that can spark some incredible fishing… and if you are well prepared, you can cash in !
The onset of these storms, with the heavy wind and big surf they can generate, create the perfect feeding opportunities for gamefish in the surf. Baitfish have a hard time evading these more powerful predators, such as striped bass and bluefish in the rough surf environment, because they just aren’t equipped to handle it like their main predators are. Large waves and whitewater allow these larger fish to prey on them with relative ease. The broom-like tail of a striped bass is perfectly adapted to propel them through heavy currents and large waves. I learned this at an early age, fishing an inlet during a nasty storm.
The current was raging out at a tremendous clip. I hooked a bass that screamed out with the moving water. When it stopped, and I started feeling the head shakes I figured that I had her where I wanted her, and would work the fish back slowly against the outgoing water. That’s where I was sadly mistaken…. the fish turned and ripped back at me, against the current, with such a burst that I was taken by surprise and couldn’t get the slack retrieved fast enough! Ultimately, this was when the battle was lost as the fish simply shook off the bucktail and went on her way. I stood on that rock (almost in tears) and was amazed by the sheer power required to move so swiftly against the tumultuous torrent of that dropping tide and storm current. That day, many years ago was a learning experience, and I would never again underestimate the power and determination of a large striped bass. So when you think it’s too rough to fish the beach, reconsider, the fish have a much different outlook on the situation and they can handle a lot more than you think!
Gearing up for these weather events requires some tackle that is well suited to the conditions. High on the list is a good foul weather top and belt to cinch it down. Water intrusion is not a pleasant experience on a cold and windy night! Plugs also need to be selected that will handle the surf conditions that are present during these weather systems. Bottle plugs and heavy needlefish (stubby model included) as well as a selection of bucktails, tins, and leadheads are tailor made for big water. They can be presented effectively and worked under most wind, wave and current conditions. Of course you’ll want to use a stout surf rod that can power casts through a gale and turn a big fish in rough water and heavy current.
If you plan on fishing areas such as inlet jetties or rocky shorelines, caution is paramount! Observe first, and take a good survey of the conditions. Storm-driven waves are powerful and it won’t take much to knock you over, potentially landing you in a dangerous situation. Also, it should go without saying that no one should venture onto the rocks without some kind of cleated footwear.
On sand beaches, receding waves can knock your feet and your pride out from under you. I should know, it happened to me on a crowded beach! Once I recovered and got back on my feet, I looked around to make sure no one saw the embarrassing stunt! (I think I got away with it!) But that situation too, could have gone wrong if I had been in deeper water where the receding wave could have carried me seaward. Take your time and assess the situation when pushing out into rough surf!
With the right tackle and safety precautions, fishing these storm-driven conditions can add some great memories to your fall run fishing. Because it won’t be long before winter has set in and we’re left to dream about spring.
