Method

Beachcasting: how to get started

In beachcasting, you cast heavy leads with worm baits a long way out from the beach. The main targets are cod and flatfish.

Good for

Plan a day of Surf casting

What you need

Beachcasting rod: 3.50 to 4.20 m, a real casting weight of about 200 g
Large fixed-spool reel with a big spool
Main line with a shock leader that absorbs the force of the cast
Leads from 125 to 200 g, grip leads for heavy surf
Beach rigs, for flatfish hooks size 1 or 1/0
Bait: lugworm or ragworm
Tripod rest as a rod holder, head torch and finger stall for casting
Warm, windproof clothing, priest, knife and tape measure

Step by step

Find out beforehand which papers you need on this stretch of coast and whether protected areas or bathing zones apply there.
Practise casting first on an empty beach with just a casting lead, no rig. Wear a finger stall while you do.
Set up the tripod and weigh it down with a sandbag in strong wind. Thread the worms neatly onto the hook.
Cast out and always watch for people walking by: a heavy lead that breaks off is dangerous.
If nothing bites far out, place rigs at medium and short range too, about 40 to 60 m.
Watch the rod tip. If it only trembles briefly, wait a little until the fish has taken the bait properly.
Bring the fish in steadily through the surf. Any fish for the table, stun and kill straight away in a humane way.

Common mistakes

Lead too light in an onshore wind: the rig drifts back to the beach.
Casting at full power without a shock leader and finger stall.
Not watching out for people walking behind and beside you.
Only casting for maximum distance, even though the fish often feed closer to the shore.

Tips

Flatfish bite especially from September to the end of November, often from sunset onwards.
Fluorescent beads on the rig can add extra attraction.
Start with simple clip-down rigs, elaborate rigs can come later.

Quick questions

Which lead should I use for beachcasting on the Baltic Sea?

About 125 to 200 g is usual. In heavy surf and an onshore wind, grip leads hold the rig in place, with little wind plain leads are enough and collect less weed.

When is the best time for beachcasting?

On the Baltic Sea, autumn through to spring counts as beachcasting season. Flatfish bite especially in autumn, often from sunset and at night. Dull days with an onshore wind are often good.

Which bait is best for beachcasting?

Lugworm and ragworm catch best. You can get them in tackle shops on the coast. Thread them on neatly so they survive the cast.

Check the rules

Closed seasons and minimum sizes are set by each German state (and by each country abroad) and can be stricter on individual waters. We are building an overview with sources and check dates. Until then, check the local fishing regulations and the rules of the club or permit for your water.

Sources (2)

Last checked 2026-10-10. Found a mistake? Write to [email protected].

Know more?

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