Live Shrimp
liveRig: Carolina rig or float rig
Availability: Available at most pier tackle shops year-round
Pro Tip: Hook through the tail for natural swimming action. Keep in an aerated bucket.
Bloodworms
liveRig: Two-hook bottom rig (pompano rig)
Availability: Seasonal — best availability spring through fall
Pro Tip: Thread onto the hook — a little goes a long way. Best for bottom feeders.
Cut Mullet
cutRig: Fish-finder rig on the bottom
Availability: Year-round at bait shops; catch your own with a cast net
Pro Tip: Fresh is always better than frozen. Cut into 1–2 inch chunks for drum.
Fiddler Crabs
liveRig: Small hook, light weight, near pilings
Availability: Dig your own in marsh mud or buy at tackle shops
Pro Tip: Hook through the shell from bottom to top. Fish tight to the pilings.
Gotcha Plugs
artificialRig: Cast and fast retrieve
Availability: Available at all tackle shops
Pro Tip: Use a fast, erratic retrieve. Silver/pink is the classic color combo.
Sand Fleas (Mole Crabs)
liveRig: Pompano rig with small hooks
Availability: Seasonal — best in warmer months along the surf
Pro Tip: Rake them from the wet sand at the waterline. Hook through the shell.
Live Minnows / Mud Minnows
liveRig: Carolina rig or under a popping cork
Availability: Year-round at bait shops
Pro Tip: Hook through the lips for casting, through the back for drifting.
Metal Spoons
artificialRig: Cast and retrieve — no weight needed
Availability: Available at all tackle shops
Pro Tip: Silver for clear water, gold for murky. Let it flutter on the fall.