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As the days begin to get longer and the water warms here on the Eastern Shore of VA, we look forward to making a trip out to our uninhabited barrier islands for the spring run of surf fishing. Red Drum, Rockfish (Striped Bass), Black Drum, and other species migrate along the barrier islands of the Eastern Seaboard. They are in search of food and the barrier islands offer an abundance of fiddler crabs, soft shell clams, surf clams, hard crabs, etc. to satisfy their hunger. One of the biggest challenges is simply the ability to get into their environment. When the fish begin their migration, it is typically around the beginning to middle of April that they begin to arrive of our shores. I typically fish off of Hog Island, previously inhabited a century ago, but now abandoned to its natural and wild state. It is a process to get where the fish are, and getting going starts with loading up my boat and beach cart with the essentials; High ‘N Dry surf fishing waders, Surf Rods and reels, tackle, bait, food and the most important, cooler with cold beer. Then it’s off to the boat ramp to then navigate unmarked channels, avoiding sandbars, and oyster rocks along a 10-mile boat ride to the island.
Arriving at the island, I first jump into my breathable waders, double check I’ve remembered everything (I’m always forgetting something), then set off with an overloaded cart on a long walk across the island headed for the surf. The weather is unpredictable in April, and it requires a good amount of work to load and unload the boat, walk the cart across the island, and then set up to fish. I have to be prepared for all conditions, and every piece of gear that I have is selected to ensure an enjoyable and successful trip. Fresh bait, new line, strong knots, sharp hooks, and a sharp knife are all critical in achieving success. Not to be overlooked, a lightweight breathable wader with a boot that is comfortable to walk in across varied terrains is also essential. Being able to layer up properly underneath my waders is a must to insure comfort whether I’m sweating across the island, or chest deep in cool ocean surf. Always remember, you can take clothes off, but you can’t put clothes on you don’t have, and its typically 5 degrees colder, and slightly windier along the ocean in spring. While everyone’s experience is different, the effort involved in getting to your ideal location will depend on your environment and conditions. The goal is to limit the amount of stuff you have to haul those long distances in efforts to find pristine water, and the optimal fishing spot. Having the proper clothing that can preform in a variety of weather conditions allowing you to comfortably walk, haul, scout, and fish is critical. The owners of High ‘N Dry created the ultimate breathable wader so that you don’t have to worry about staying comfortable chasing that ever elusive 50 inch red drum. Don’t just take our words for it, Tommy Farmer World Surf Fishing Casting Champion, and avid surf fisherman, says the same thing. Feel confident in your decision to purchase the best tool developed and built by people who actually use and rely on every day.