Whether it’s a splash top or a 10-foot spinning rod, surf fishermen take pride in their gear. Constant exposure to — and often, submersion in — saltwater demands durable, purpose-built tackle and apparel. The Northeast surf can be harsh and unforgiving, especially during the back nine of the striper season. Our gift guide for surfcasters includes a little bit of everything a wading or wetsuiting angler needs between March and December, from virtually indestructible surf belt accoutrements to insulated hydration options and more.
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Quantum Zeal Surf Rods
Engineered with Quantum’s proprietary HSX24 ton carbon fiber blanks, these rods offer an ideal combination of strength and sensitivity. Stainless steel guides with zirconia inserts deliver lightweight, corrosion-resistant durability for smooth casting and retrieval in the surf. Starting at $140
Available in 8- to 12-foot models.
Grundens Vector Wader
According to Grundens, the Vector Wader was designed for anglers who spend 200+ days a year on the water, with a focus on durability. That’s exactly what the surfcaster wants, a wader that can be counted on to stay dry for multiple seasons of chasing surf stripers. $500
YETI Rambler Travel Bottle
The Leakproof Commuter Cap locks in every drop while hiking over rocks or bouncing down the trail to the beach. Double-wall vacuum insulation locks in the temps all day, and the 360-degree cap lets you sip from every angle. 12 oz. $28 / 16 oz. $32
Tak Waterman Shell Jacket
After years of design, testing, and refining, Northeast-based fishing and surf brand TAK Waterman introduced this surfcasting top. Made from a recycled stretch shell with 20K waterproof / 10K breathable protection, making it a four-season jacket for the surf, kayak, and boat.
Grundens Turbulence Hybrid Hoodie
An outer shell made from recycled stretch polyester acts as a water-repellent windbreaker, while G-Loft stretch insulation regulates body temperature on this surf-ready hooded sweatshirt. $230
Turtle Cove Tackle Jig Vault
This holster is specifically designed to keep a jar of Fat Cow bucktail trailers secure and accessible on your wading belt without any dangling straps or noisy Velcro. Starting at $30
Z-Belts Surfcaster’s Wetsuit Pants
These wetsuit pants are purpose-built for surf fishermen with 3mm neoprene, stair fabric reinforcements in high-wear areas, thick knee pads, and a fly. $130
OutCast Lures Presentation Gift Box Set
Present your surf fishing partner(s) with a collection of OutCast or Yellow Star lures in style. Each gift box is cloth bound and includes a removable foam lining, which keeps the plugs nestled in place and free of hook tangles or superficial scratches — at least until they stick a few big bass. Starting at $65.95
Z-Belts Ultralight 2-Tube Plug Bag
Two-layer Dacron sailcloth construction makes this two-tube plug bag a great choice for deep-wading or wetsuiting surf fishermen. It has an integrated utility belt on both sides that is designed to carry a Boga grip, pliers, dive knife, or attachable single-tube pouch. Along with two built-in mesh leader wallets, there are 4 bucktail jig sleeves and a rear interior storage pouch among other useful features. Starting at $165
VMC Inline Single 4X Strong Hooks
In the interest of reducing release mortality, replace the trebles on your striper plugs with these chemically-sharpened single hooks. Each hook is constructed with layers of an ultra-thin, corrosion-resistant black nickel finish and boasts a wide gap for secure penetration in the big, rubbery maws of striped bass.
Seaguar Inshore Fluorocarbon Leader
This fast-sinking, low memory fluorocarbon is Seaguar’s most abrasion-resistant leader material, which makes it an excellent choice for jetty casters or wetsuiting in boulder fields. Its low-stretch properties lead to more firm, secure hooksets so you can put the brakes on big fish in tight, rocky areas. Starting at $17