Whether you’re new to surf fishing or a seasoned pro, one thing is certain: your surf fishing mindset matters. A positive outlook and the right attitude can make a difference when trying to catch fish from the shore.
It is easy to get bogged down by all things that can go wrong while fishing. You may not have the right equipment, the waves may be too big, or the fish just may not be biting.
Being optimistic and having high expectations going into your fishing trip can help you catch more fish and have a better time overall. It may help you stay patient when the bites are slow and keep trying new techniques when the fish seem uninterested in your bait.
Lure and bait surf fishing can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Keep a positive mindset, and you’re sure to have a good time while surf fishing, no matter the conditions.
Listen to more fishing tips on the Cast & Spear Podcast
Lure Surf Fishing
In lure surf fishing, you use artificial lures to attract and catch fish. This type of fishing can be advantageous, as it tests your ability to choose the right lure and fish it correctly. One of the most important things to remember when luring surf fishing is that you need to have confidence in your lure. If you don’t believe that the fish will bite, they probably won’t.
You need to have patience in lure fishing as well. It may take some time to figure out which lure the fish are biting on that day, and you may go through a lot of different lures before you find the one that works, which might lead to spending more time in the water than you originally planned. But that’s okay!
The more time you spend fishing, the better your chances of catching something. Lure fishing is physically demanding as well. You will be casting your lure out into the waves and retrieving it repeatedly. This can be tiring, but it’s all part of the fun.
This is what Gary and Kaspar Kazazian, authors of California Surf Fishing: The Hunt for Big Fish, said, “With lure fishing, you have to move around a lot, you got to be hungry, and you got to be willing to walk around and have the energy to track down those big fish.”
Bait Surf Fishing
Bait surf fishing is very similar to lure fishing, but you are using bait instead of lures, as the name suggests. You can use live bait or cut bait, and it’s often helpful to have a variety of bait on hand to see what the fish are biting on that day.
Cut bait is bait that has been cut into small pieces. This type of bait is easy to use and doesn’t require any special preparation. Live bait is any bait that is still alive when you put it on your hook. This can be anything from worms to small fish.
Live bait is often more successful than cut bait, but keeping your bait alive in the waves and sand can be more difficult. You will need to have a bait container or live well to keep your bait alive and fresh. Otherwise, the fish will quickly lose interest.
Unlike lure fishing, you don’t need to have as much physical movement when bait fishing.
According to Gary and Kaspar Kazazian, “Bait and weight it’s kind of the same thing, except it’s not so much about having the energy to move from spot to spot.”
You can cast your baited line out and wait for a fish to bite. This doesn’t mean that bait fishing is easy, however. You still need to be patient and have confidence in your bait. The fish will often test your bait before taking it, so it’s important to be patient and let them nibble. Bait fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surf.
“I would say bait weight fishing. If you find a reef that’s produced over and over, there’s a perfect chance you go at the right tide you’re going to catch,” Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said.
The Power of a Positive Mindset in Surf Fishing
A positive mindset is one of the most important things you can bring to your fishing trips. It’s been said that success in fishing has more to do with mindset than anything else. A positive mindset allows you to see the potential for success, even when the odds seem against you. A positive mindset also allows you to be more creative in your approach to fishing.
When you believe that you can catch fish, you’re more likely to try new techniques and experiment with different lures and baits. This willingness to experiment can lead to more success, as you’re more likely to find the right combination of factors that will produce a bite.
Finally, a positive mindset can make fishing more enjoyable. When you’re focused on the positive aspects of fishing, such as the beauty of the outdoors and the satisfaction of spending time with friends or family, you’re less likely to be bothered by the inevitable setbacks of fishing.
As Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said, “And we were like, these guys are very optimistic people, and they seem really cool. So we were like, let’s ask them to fish with us. And then they became long-term fishing buddies, both of their great attitudes and just ended up being really fun.”
Why a Positive Mindset is Important for Surf Fishing
When fishing with lures and baits in the surf, it is important to have a positive mindset. The act of fishing itself can be quite frustrating at times. There will be days when the fish don’t seem to be biting, no matter what you do.
You might spend hours casting your line out only to reel it in empty-handed. It can be easy to get discouraged on days like this.
Here is what Gary and Kaspar Kazazian have to say, “Sometimes you might go for a reef that you think will produce, but it doesn’t. You can get a little demoralized, but if you have positive expectations and carry that energy with you, you can drive around to maybe three reefs.”
That is why it is so important to have a positive mindset when surf fishing. You need to believe that you will catch fish, even on the slowest of days. This positive mindset will help you to stay patient and keep trying, even when it seems like all hope is lost.
How to Maintain a Positive Mindset Surf Fishing
Do you want to maintain a positive mindset while surf fishing? Here are some tips that can help:
Look for a Good Fishing Spot
A big part of fishing is finding the right spot. Don’t be afraid to spend some time exploring before you start fishing. Once you find a good spot, take some time to relax and enjoy the scenery. This will help you stay calm and focused, both of which are important for catching fish.
Be Prepared for Bad Days
There will be days when you can’t seem to catch anything. It happens to everyone, even the most experienced fishermen. When this happens, don’t get too discouraged.
Instead, take a break and try another day. There is no sense in getting yourself worked up over something you can’t control.
“And if I’m fishing and things aren’t going right, I’ll take that quiet time. I’ll actually stop fishing for a little bit. Take that quiet time, and then I get back into feeling centered and balanced,” Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said.
Keep Your Gear in Good Condition
If your gear is old and not in the best condition, catching fish will be much harder. Make sure that you regularly clean and maintain your gear so that it is always in top condition. This will help you catch more fish and also make the whole experience more enjoyable.
Have Fun
Above all, remember to have fun. Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
If you are constantly worrying about whether or not you will catch anything, you are not going to enjoy the experience. So, relax, take your time, and enjoy yourself. Who knows, you might catch the biggest fish of your life.
The Benefits of a Positive Mindset in Surf Fishing
When you’re out on the waves, catching some fish can be quite difficult. The thing is, if you don’t have the right mindset, it can be even harder.
Many people go fishing with a negative attitude, and they wonder why they don’t catch anything. The truth is your mindset plays a big role in whether or not you’ll be successful. Here are some of the benefits of having a positive attitude when you’re surf fishing:
Relaxation
Spending time outdoors can be therapeutic. The sound of the waves crashing on the shore, the smell of salt in the air, and the feel of sand between your toes can instantly transport you to a state of relaxation.
For many, fishing is the perfect activity to enjoy while outdoors. Not only does it give you a chance to enjoy nature, but it also provides a thrilling challenge. If you’re tense and anxious, it will be hard to enjoy yourself.
When you’re not relaxed, your body is tight, making it difficult to cast your line. When you’re relaxed, your body is loose, making it easier to cast your line.
Improved Concentration
To be successful in fishing, you need to have a good concentration level. Many things can distract you when you’re fishing, such as other people, animals, and your thoughts.
If you have a positive mindset, it’s easier to block out these distractions and focus on what you’re doing. When you’re able to concentrate, you’re more likely to feel the bite and reel in a fish.
“If you remain optimistic and stay focused and dialed in that way, when the fish bites, you can set the hook instead of feeling like the fish isn’t going to bite it and you’re not going to be able to set the hook,” as Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said.
Patience
In lure and bait surf fishing, you need to be patient. It’s not uncommon to go for long periods without catching anything. If you have a negative attitude, you’re likely to get frustrated and give up.
You’re more likely to stick it out and be patient when you have a positive mindset. The more patient you are, the greater your chances of success.
Greater Enjoyment
When you have a positive attitude, you can enjoy the experience more. The thrill of finally reeling in a fish is also more enjoyable when you have a positive attitude. But, even if you don’t catch anything, you can still appreciate the time you spend outdoors.
If you go into it with a negative attitude, you’re likely to be disappointed even if you catch something. It’s important to remember that fishing is supposed to be fun – a way to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Tips for Staying Positive While Surf Fishing
Fishing is a great activity that people of all ages can enjoy. It’s a great way to relax, enjoy nature, and even catch a few fish. However, fishing can also be frustrating, especially if you’re not having any luck.
If you’re getting angry or frustrated while surf fishing, it’s important to try to stay positive. Here are a few tips to help you stay positive while surf fishing:
Enjoy Every Moment
Enjoy and appreciate the time you spend fishing, even if you don’t catch anything. Take in the sights and sounds of nature, and savor the experience of being outdoors. Even if you don’t catch any fish, you’ll still have had a great time.
Be Prepared
Make sure you have all the supplies you need before you go fishing. This includes bait, lures, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, snacks, and drinks. Having everything you need will help you relax and enjoy the experience, knowing that you’re prepared for anything.
Create a Positive Atmosphere
The environment you fish in can have a big impact on your mood. If you’re fishing in a beautiful setting surrounded by nature, staying positive is much easier. However, if you’re fishing in a crowded, noisy, or dirty area, it can be more difficult to remain positive. If possible, try to find a quiet, peaceful place to fish.
Set Realistic Expectations
It’s important to set realistic expectations before you go fishing. You’re likely to be disappointed if you’re expecting to catch a fish on every cast.
Remember that even the best fishers have days where they don’t catch anything. Just relax, enjoy the experience, and try not to get too upset if you don’t catch anything.
Don’t Be Afraid to Try New Things
If you’re not having any luck with the bait or lure you’re using, don’t be afraid to try something new. Sometimes, it takes a different bait or lure to attract a fish. Trying new things can also make fishing more fun and exciting.
“You want to stick to the fundamentals, even if you’ve been breaking off more than you’d like, even if you’re getting by and you’re not hooking them up, you say, I want to use this other hook, or you want to change your setup or something, “ as Gary and Kaspar Kazazian said.
Have Patience
Patience is essential when fishing. It can take time to find the right spot and even longer to catch a fish. If you’re patient, you’ll eventually be rewarded. And, in the meantime, you can enjoy the peacefulness of being outdoors.
Keep a Positive Attitude
Positive thinking is important in all aspects of life, including fishing. Keeping a positive attitude will make it easier to stay calm and patient. And, if you do happen to catch a fish, you’ll be that much more excited.
Final Thoughts
Having positive vibes when you go fishing can make a big difference in your success. You’re more likely to catch a fish if you’re positive and patient. But, even if you don’t, you can still enjoy the time you spend outdoors. So, relax, have fun, and keep those positive vibes flowing.
Being negative can ruin any fishing trip, and while surf fishing isn’t easy, having the right mindset can make it more fun and rewarding experience. So go out, enjoy the outdoors, and don’t forget to relax and have fun.
Fishing Expert
Facebook
YouTube