Surf & Landbased Rods
Surf and landbased rods for casting baits and lures from New Zealand's beaches, rocks and wharves, from long surf casters to powerful rock rods. Our range is led by Okuma, Shimano and Daiwa, alongside PENN, Abu Garcia and Jarvis Walker.
Surf rods, usually 10 to 14 feet, cast heavy sinkers beyond the breakers, while shorter rock rods give leverage to steer fish away from the rocks. Pair one with a long-cast surf reel, stock up on sinkers and swivels, or choose a matched surf and landbased combo.
Talk through beach and rock setups at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about surf and landbased rods
What length surf rod do I need?
Most surf rods are 10 to 14 feet long. Longer rods cast further and hold the line above the breaking waves, which suits big, open beaches. Around 12 feet is a good all-round length for New Zealand beaches. Shorter surf rods around 10 feet are easier to handle and suit smaller beaches, estuaries and anglers who are new to surf casting. Match the rod length to your height and casting style too.
What is the difference between a surf rod and a rock rod?
Surf rods are long and designed to cast sinkers and baits as far as possible from the beach. Rock rods are shorter, typically 8 to 10 feet, and more powerful, giving leverage to lift and steer fish away from rocks and kelp at close range. If you mainly fish beaches, choose a surf rod; for rock ledges and wharves with structure nearby, a rock rod is more practical.
What casting weight should my surf rod have?
Surf rods are rated for a range of sinker weights, such as 4 to 8 ounces or 100 to 200 grams. Choose a rod that handles the sinker weights needed to hold bottom in your local surf and current. Heavier sinkers are needed on rough west coast beaches, while calmer beaches need less. Casting within the rated range gives the best distance and avoids damaging the rod.
How do I transport a long surf rod?
Most surf rods come in two or three pieces, which makes them easier to fit in a car, though they are still long. A rod tube or rod sleeve protects the sections and guides during transport. Roof racks with rod holders are popular with regular surf anglers. Keep the reel off the rod while travelling to avoid damaging the reel seat and guides. Secure the rod so it cannot slide around in the vehicle.
What is the best way to hold a surf rod while waiting for a bite?
A sand spike or rod holder keeps your rod upright, with the line high above the waves and the reel clear of sand and water. Set the drag light enough that a big fish can take line without pulling the rod over, and watch the rod tip for bites. Keeping the rod upright also lets you see the tip clearly and keeps the line out of the breakers. Never leave a rod unattended in big surf.
Can I target kingfish from the rocks?
Yes, landbased kingfish fishing is popular around New Zealand's headlands and rocky points, using live baits or topwater lures. It needs a powerful rock or landbased topwater rod, a large reel with a strong drag and heavy braid, and a gaff or net with a long handle. Safety comes first: never fish alone, wear a lifejacket and appropriate footwear, and watch the swell and tide carefully.