THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO SURFCASTING
Surfcasting culture in New Zealand brings a truly mixed bag of anglers to our beautiful coastlines. We have salt-of-the-earth sorts: local battlers braving wave sets with their favourite rod, fishing grandad’s honey-hole as a means of putting kai moana on the table. Then there are beach-angler elitists; those that spare no money or time on their craft and have studied their fishing patch fastidiously. These anglers are diligent in the surfcasting game and are out there to break records & land trophy fish. In other words, they know what they're doing. Then there’s the kiwi punter; often seen across summertime dragging a chilly bin and borrowed rod to the beach with their peers. Their fishing IQ may be low, and their catch-rate is normally non-existent, but at the end of the day, they’re not too fussed. And who knows, these might be the sessions that ignite their lifelong fishing interest…
There are no barriers to entry for surfcasting. It’s a culture carved deeply into the kiwi way of living, and Daiwa has been here to support it since daybreak. From 1965 - when Daiwa pioneered the traditional ‘spin reel’ design, now prominently used in surfcasting - to today. Japanese-designed with the Kiwi market in mind, we’re equipped to serve New Zealand’s surfcasting community with quality products across a wide range of skill levels.
Sand vs Sky
INTRO TO SURFCASTING
Surfcasting is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to get into saltwater fishing in New Zealand. We have an enormous amount of accessible coastline, from long sandy west coast beaches to sheltered eastern bays and South Island shingle beaches, and much of it can be fished with relatively simple gear. That is a big part of the appeal. You do not need a boat, electronics or a huge budget to get started, and a basic surf setup can put you in with a real chance of catching quality fish from the shore.
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SURF ROD RANGE
Experience the pinnacle of affordable surf fishing performance with Daiwa's Emcast Surf Rods, meticulously crafted in six lengths from 8ft to 15ft and customised to meet the specific demands of New Zealand's surf anglers.
Boasting a sleek deep blue cosmetic design, these rods not only catch the eye but also provide unparalleled functionality. Equipped with a hi-viz tip, they excel in low-light conditions, ensuring you never miss a bite.
Engineered with functionality in mind, Daiwa's Emcast Surf Rods redefine the standards of surfcasting gear, allowing anglers to tackle the rugged coastal surf zones of New Zealand with confidence.
Light and sharp. High-performance on a budget. Laguna X is a result of years of research and development to create the ultimate budget rod series. Laguna X combines high-end blank technology, with innovative design and quality components to produce a rod range that delivers high-performance and incredible value for money.
The Laguna X begins with innovative carbon design. Fibres are laid longitudinally with minimal resin and then rolled under pressure at extremely high temperatures to produce a blank that has a slim profile, and increased density. To increase power the Laguna integrates Braiding X technology to further enhance rod performance by increasing wall strength and reducing blank twist. By eliminating twist and preventing the blank from losing its round form, Braiding X allows thinner blank to be made, and a lighter, more dynamic rod to be created. A graphite reel seats features custom manufactured alloy componentry and high-quality EVA grips provides maximum comfort and sensitivity.
Sensor Wave combines Japanese shore-jigging pedigree with New Zealand surf fishing culture to bring a brand-new series to anglers searching for affordable land-based action. Built around a BRAIDING-X blank, Sensor Wave rods are deceptively lightweight. The first three models in the series are the shore-jigging specialists. Designed in Japan and brought to New Zealand, these actions excel at firing long casts with metal lures from beaches and breakwalls across the country, their lightweight nature allows precise lure control that has to be seen to be truly appreciated.
The longer models are more traditional New Zealand surf rod design, 12'0" through to 15'0". Sensor Wave have slightly shorter handles than most other Daiwa Surf rod designs, a feature welcomed by many sidecast reel users and spin users alike.
The use of BRAIDING-X on the butt sections of Sensor Wave allows for an overall smaller blank diameter, which when stretching lengths out to 15'0" can make quite a difference to the rod's overall balance and feel when in use. Outfitted with Fuji's Corrosion Control (CC) 'O' ring guides, the Sensor Wave rods are built to last and built to fish, where the treacherous coast is no place for inferior equipment.
Performance starts with a great blank and Sensor Sand Storm is true to that philosophy, featuring many of Daiwa's newest design and blank technologies to create a range that is equally refined, rugged and robust.
Constructed using Daiwa's HVF carbon blank technology, this low resin, high strength, graphite blank is light, powerful and highly responsive. Combining with HVF Nanoplus in blank design is Daiwa's X45, with its innovative technology delivering enhanced strength, power, and weightlessness, and a reduction in blank twist and an increase in torque and blank recoil. The result is a blank that returns to its straight form quickly, delivers faster acceleration, and longer more responsive casts.
Lacking nothing in componentary the Sensor Sand Storm Surf range features Fuji Reel Seats, and Fuji Stainless Steel and Alconite Guides for unmatched strength, sensitivity, and performance.
With six models in the range, Sensor Sand Storm Surf is the ideal choice for light line fishing from piers and in estuaries to heavy tackle spinning for pelagics off the headlands.
Designed for ultimate casting performance. Loaded with design brilliance and innovation the Sensor Surf is for those looking for performance, value, and unrivalled excellence when it comes to their surf fishing, and demand nothing less than the very best.
The Sensor Surf blank now features HVF Nanoplus, with Nano resin technology resulting in increased blank carbon density, strength and sensitivity. X45 delivers ultimate strength, power, and weightlessness, resulting in an ultra slim blank that eliminates blank twist and massively increases torque, and blank recoil. With all this extra power the join in the rod features Daiwa's V joint, this allows the ferrule to flex eliminating weak of flat spots, and increasing responsiveness.
For ultimate casting performance with our long spool reels the rod features Fuji Alconite K guides, these guides increase the line speed, eliminate line tangles, and lay the line closer to the blank for faster and more accurate casting.
By integrating the latest Daiwa technologies, we have created the ultimate long distance casting rod. The progressive actions are capable of producing of delivering powerful casts, while the upper section absorbs all the weight during a battle providing power with less angler fatigue.
Optimal casting performance begins with blank design, and nothing was held back when constructing the blank of the Cast IZM. Featuring Daiwa's exclusive graphite construction SVF (Super Volume Fiber), which combines precise resin control with unidirectional graphite to produce a blank with maximum graphite density, the blank of the Cast IZM is extremely lightweight, powerful, and sensitive. X45 Bias Wrap construction is integrated to radically improve strength and durability by eliminating twist and preventing blank distortion under load. To compliment this Daiwa has utilized revolutionary ferrule technology in V-Joint Alpha. This allows the ferrule of the Cast IZM to flex with the rod, resulting in a multi-piece blank with performance comparable to a one-piece blank in flex, power, and responsiveness. Not content, Daiwa designers went a step further and added a hybrid tip with heightened bite sensitivity. Megatop, comprised of a new SVF-SPX material, allows for the construction of a solid tip with extremely even distribution of fibers. The result is a tip section with virtually no spine that is capable of bending with the same angle in any direction.
A purpose-built casting instrument requires the best componentry available. To that end the Cast IZM uses Fuji stainless steel lowrider guides with SiC inserts, and a Fuji NS-7 plate style reel seat. All unnecessary components have been removed from the handle section, and an anti-slip coating has been used on all parts held by the thrower. An ergonomic heel base finishes the build providing the perfect secure grip for performing technical casts.
Daiwa Cast’Izm Surfcasting Rod Review - Sam Morrison
When the team at Daiwa mentioned they were bringing a new surf rod to the market here in New Zealand naturally I was interested. When I saw the spec’s on the Cast’IZM and that it was a continental style rod that interest turned into excitement!
Surf anglers that have made the transition to continental style rods will understand why I was itching to get this new rod out into the surf and onto some fish, they are just so enjoyable to fish with.
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Surf Casting With The Daiwa Team
surf reel range
Daiwa's newest addition to the surf range the Sensor Surf 45 SCW is the perfect reel for the avid surf angler wanting precise control and the ability to punch out long casts to the horizon.
The long-stroke design spool combined with Daiwa's new Slow Cross Wrap oscillation system results in improved casting distance and line management. Air Rotor and Air Bail are also equipped to lower inertia for smooth effortless winding and also aid inline management.
Magseal delivers the Holy Grail for surf anglers, providing protection and performance like only Magseal can by limiting water ingress in the surf zone.
Sensor Surf 45 SCW continues to deliver with the addition of Digiger II for perfect gear meshing and ultra smooth performance, ATD drag for precise drag control when fighting fish in turbulent wash and Infinite Anti Reverse for ultimate reliability.
Reliability meets smooth long casting performance. The Procyon 5500 provides anglers with a great value surfcasting reel designed with simplicity and reliability in mind. Robust brass gears are housed within a corrosion resistant graphite composite body and side plate, while a high-capacity long cast ABS spool delivers effortless casting performance. Line management is made easy with Twistbuster, minimising the chance for line issues while maximising casting distance. The perfect option for the surf angler looking for a solid and reliable surfcasting reel at an affordable price. Comes spooled with line.
Discover the unmatched performance of Daiwa's budget-friendly Eliminator LC Surf Reel, designed for surf anglers of New Zealand. Featuring a lightweight yet durable construction and an efficient 3+1 bearing system, the Eliminator LC guarantees performance, even in challenging conditions.
Ideal for anglers seeking top-notch gear at an affordable price point, the Eliminator delivers exceptional value and dependability, making it the ultimate choice for surfcasting expeditions along the rugged New Zealand coastline.
Immerse yourself in the unparalleled performance of Daiwa's Emcast LC reel, meticulously designed with a lightweight body and an advanced 7+1 ball bearing system, guaranteeing a seamlessly smooth retrieve after every cast.
Ideal for surfcasting enthusiasts across the rugged coastlines of New Zealand, this reel delivers exceptional durability and performance, allowing you to tackle the toughest conditions with confidence.
Whether you're targeting trophy fish or enjoying a leisurely day out the coast, the Emcast LC elevates your angling experience to the next level.
Exceptional value for money in a high-performance surfcasting reel. The Shorecast 6000 more than lives up to its impressive heritage, offering avid surf anglers a reel that achieves a remarkable balance of technology and affordability. Featuring the long range casting capabilities of Daiwa's famous Long Cast surf spool, the Shorecast also integrates many of Daiwa's latest technologies such Digigear, Twistbuster II, and Air Rotor, to provide surf anglers with exceptional value.
Get the edge in ultra-long-distance surfcasting with the 20 CROSSCAST SURF 45, a 45mm stroke long-distance reel designed to maximise distance to gain access to untouched areas when fishing from shore.
It all revolves around the long-stroke spool, featuring a 2-degree front-facing taper to allow line to fly off with ease. The long-stroke design minimises changes in direction for line flowing off the spool. Combine that with Daiwa's new Slow Cross Wrap Oscillation system which evenly distributes the line more closely packed to itself up and down the spool, resulting in improved casting distance across the board.
A sturdy carbon composite body houses a DIGIGEAR II design drive, digitally designed and manufactured to exact tolerances to produce a reel which is smooth and strong. 20 CROSSCAST SURF is perfectly matched to any one of Daiwa's large range of surf rods and will be a big hit for anglers who like to keep two feet on solid ground.
Compact and lightweight the new Windcast combines the power and lightness, with the distance and long range casting capabilities of Daiwa's famous long cast surf models.
Loaded with the latest technology like Magseal, Air Rotor and Air Bail, with power and performance this is the reel to reach for when you want to cast long distances and muscle fish to the shoreline.
Ideal for rock and surf fishing, Magseal involves scientifically designed magnetised oil that forms a seal that reduces dust, water and salt intrusion, and eliminates oil spray associated with traditional non-magnetised seals.
Compact, feature packed and designed to handle the harsh elements of surf fishing, the Windcast continues Daiwa's dominance in setting the standard for others to follow.
TOP FIVE SURFCASTING TIPS
1. Look for good water, not just open water
One of the biggest surfcasting lessons is that not all parts of a beach fish the same. Look for gutters, holes, rip edges, creek mouths and colour changes in the water. These are the areas where food collects and fish are more likely to patrol. Quite often, a shorter cast into the right spot will outfish a big cast into dead water.
2. Keep your gear and rigs simple
You do not need a complicated setup to catch fish from the beach. A standard surf outfit, matched with proven rigs such as a two-hook dropper rig or pulley rig, will handle most New Zealand surfcasting situations. Keeping things simple helps you fish more confidently and spend more time with a bait in the water.
3. Use fresh bait and present it neatly
Fresh bait consistently gives you the best chance of success. Popular options include pilchard, squid, bonito, mullet and shellfish baits such as tuatua or pipi. Using bait elastic is a simple trick that helps hold softer baits in place, improves presentation and stops them washing off in the surf.
4. Fish the low-light periods
Dawn and dusk are two of the best times to surfcast, and night fishing can be especially productive as larger fish move closer to shore with more confidence. Bright daytime sessions can still produce fish, particularly if there is a bit of swell, water colour or nearby structure, but low-light periods are often the most reliable.
5. Match your approach to the conditions
Successful surfcasters pay attention to the beach in front of them. Check the swell, sweep, tide and undertow before you start. Use the lightest sinker that still holds bottom properly, avoid wading too deep, and adjust your setup to suit the conditions rather than forcing the same approach every session.
SURFCASTING FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Whether you are just getting started or looking to sharpen up the basics, these common surfcasting questions cover the key things every beach angler should know.
1. What is surfcasting?
Surfcasting is fishing from the shore, usually from a beach, using a longer rod and simple baited rigs to target fish feeding close to shore or beyond the breakers. It is one of the most accessible forms of saltwater fishing in New Zealand.
2. Is surfcasting good for beginners?
Yes. Surfcasting is a great entry point because you do not need a boat or a huge budget to get started. With a basic setup and the right beach conditions, beginners have a genuine chance of catching quality fish from shore.
3. What species can you catch surfcasting in New Zealand?
Depending on where and when you fish, common targets include kahawai, snapper, gurnard, rig, elephant fish, school shark, trevally, moki and seasonal salmon.
4. What size rod should I use for surfcasting?
For most New Zealand surfcasting, a rod in the 13ft to 14ft range is the standard starting point. The extra length helps with casting, line control and keeping line above the shore break.
5. Should I use nylon or braid?
Both are effective. Nylon is forgiving and beginner-friendly, with stretch that helps absorb casting shock and lunges in the surf. Braid is thinner, more direct and can improve bite detection and distance, but it is less forgiving and often works best with a shock leader.
6. What rigs are best for surfcasting?
A two-hook dropper rig is one of the best all-round choices, while a pulley rig is a strong option in rougher water or when you want better bait presentation with fewer tangles. For beginners, those two rigs cover most situations.
7. What are the best baits for surfcasting?
Fresh bait is usually best. Common options include pilchard, skipjack tuna, bonito, mullet, squid, anchovy and prawn. In many areas, shellfish baits such as tuatua, pipi and mussel are also very effective.
8. Do I need to cast a long way?
Not always. A common beginner mistake is assuming fish are always far out. In reality, many fish are caught much closer in around gutters, holes and whitewater edges. Accuracy and fishing the right water often matter more than maximum distance.
9. What is the best time to go surfcasting?
Dawn and dusk are generally among the best times to fish from the beach. Night sessions can also be very productive, especially for larger fish moving in close after dark.
10. What safety tips matter most when surfcasting?
Always check wave height, swell, sweep and rips before fishing. Avoid wearing waders into the surf, do not wade past a comfortable depth, tell someone where you are going, and keep an eye on changing beach conditions throughout the session.
