Surfcasting - which baits to use and when

Bait should be as fresh as possible.

Pilchards will often be the first choice of bait for many beach anglers, closely followed by anchovies.

To tell whether the bait is any good, look into the eyes. If they’re clear and shiny you’re buying good bait. If they’re cloudy and dull it has been frozen more than once and is probably soft and mushy. Skippies are online now with only a couple of outlets with fresh locally caught skippies. Again look at the eyes, they should be dark and shiny. If so, you’re getting fresh - if not, you’re getting rubbish and it's only good for berley.

We move next onto squid. Easy this one. White is best - A grade and primo bait. If it has a pink tinge or is red in colour leave it where it is, as this bait only works best when it's in top condition.

Tuatua’s should be bright orange and will take on a mottled brown or grey when they’re not freshly packed.

These are your major baits and can be used in all aspects of fishing from the wharf to deep-sea angling.