How to Tie the Bait When Surf-Casting

A variety of bait is used when surf fishing for saltwater game fish. The type of bait is often determined by the fish species and is also determined by personal preference and experience. Anglers tie shrimp, menhaden, mullet, squid, sand fleas and even soft plastic baits soaked in fish attractant on a line with terminal tackle to attract and catch fish from the surf.

Things You'll Need

  • Bait holder hook
  • Monofilament fishing line
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Instructions

    • 1

      Hold a bait holder hook by the shank so the eye of the hook is easily accessible. Hold the end of the main fishing line or leader in the other hand.

    • 2

      Feed the line through the eye of the hook so that 4 to 6 inches of the free end extends through the hook eye on the opposite side.

    • 3

      Turn the free end back through the eye to form a loop on one side of the eye and a double line on the other side.

    • 4

      Tie an overhand knot with the loop and double line.

    • 5

      Pull the loop down around the bend of the hook, moisten the line and pull the knot tight against the eye of the hook. Trim excess line from the free end with sharp scissors.

    • 6

      Place cut bait securely on the hook. Slide the bait around the bend and up onto the shank so it is held in place by the keeper barbs on the shank.