SURF FISHING

Fishing in the surf takes practice and can be challenging, but once you get the hang of it you’ll have a great time and feel connected to the ocean.

The Surf Fishing Experience

Many anglers have not experienced the unique Florida fishing approach of casting your line from a beach into the ongoing surf.  One great spot to try this experience is at the South Ponte Vedra Beach Recreation Area.  Its located about two miles south of the Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve on Highway A1A, across from the South Ponte Vedra Fire Station.

There is parking directly off the beach, but it is somewhat limited and can fill quickly. The pavilions and picnic tables provided at the Park adds to the beach environment and is a great spot to have a picnic or relax as you are honing your surf fishing skills.

For many, the combination of being barefoot in the sand, hearing the waves and seeing passing birds collectively gives a really unique fishing experience.  Go early in the morning.  The beach is less crowded, the incoming tides can be best for “reading the tides.”

As you are out fishing, remember these waters are very sensitive ecosystems that can easily be damaged.  You can be a “Sustainable PVB Guest” by

  • Make sure to not let any fishing related materials or refuse to fall into the water.
  • Use trash receptacles to discard garbage and try to recycle as much as possible.
  • Enjoy the water by wearing a hat and ocean safe sunscreens. Stick to sunscreens that are free of oxybenzone and octinoxate, two of the most common ingredients found in chemical formulas.

Details

Experience: Surf Fishing at the South Ponte Vedra Beach Recreation Area

Address: 2993 S. Ponte Vedra Blvd., Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida 32082

Hours: Sunrise to sunset

Website:  http://www.sjcfl.us/Beaches/Access.aspx

Facilities Available: There is off beach parking, stairs to the beach, pavilions and picnic tables at the Recreation Area.

Level of Difficulty: Moderate to challenging – depending on waves and winds.

Other Information: 

Tips From The Experts

  1. Get to the Recreation Area early.  Parking will be more available, the fish are most active, and few families are out making for a peaceful environment.
  2. Bring a hat, sunscreen, water and wear comfortable clothing for casting that can get wet. Also think about getting a waterproof phone case if you plan to carry your phone.
  3. Bring a PVC surf pipe to place your rod in to protect your gear from rising tides and breaking surf.