For several years now, surfcasting has been gaining more and more followers on the Landes coast. A very popular fishing technique among sea bream and sea bass enthusiasts, this sport fishing is accessible to everyone. Here’s what you need to know about surfcasting in Les Landes.
How to practice surfcasting?
Surfcasting – an English term meaning “to cast into the wave” – is practiced by the sea, on the coast, from the beach, jetties, or rocks. Surfcasting for sea bream and surfcasting for sea bass are the two most common techniques.
The surfcaster uses a long rod (minimum 4 meters) to reach long distances and cast their line as far as possible behind the waves, over 100 m from the shore for the most experienced. The rod is held vertically on a stand. You need to move regularly with the tide. For bait, sand worms are used, but also shrimp, crabs, or squid, which hold very well on the hook.
When to go surfcasting?
Surfcasting in Les Landes can be practiced all year round, day and night, ideally during incoming tide. The most favorable fishing periods are from May to December. And during spring tides, with coefficients over 110, the fishing is even better. Finally, know that you’ll have the best chances of big catches at sunrise or sunset, and also at night. Fish come closer to the shore to find food.
What fish can you catch?
For this type of ‘sport’ fishing, you can catch a wide variety of fish: sea bream (grey and royal), spotted sea bass, sole, turbot, sargo, marbled fish…
What fishing permit?
Unlike freshwater fishing, shore fishing does not require any specific permit or authorization. However, there’s one golden rule to respect: it is forbidden to resell your catch!
Where to go surfcasting in Les Landes?
With its immense fine sandy beaches, the Landes coast is a paradise for shore anglers. Here are some essential fishing spots:
- Petit Nice beach in Biscarrosse
- Lette Blanche beach in Vielle-Saint-Girons
- Cap de l’Homy Beach in Lit-et-Mixe
- Courant d’Huchet beach in Moliets-et-Maa
- Soustons beach
- the marine lake channel of Vieux-Boucau
- the Tarnos jetty, Labenne-Plage
- Hossegor central beach
Equipment
While surfcasting professionals invest in high-tech equipment, for occasional practice (on weekends or during holidays), you can opt for an affordable surfcasting rod and reel set. Expect to pay between €50 and €80. You will also need waders to go into the water and a small headlamp for night fishing.
Tips for beginner anglers
- Be careful of baïnes (water holes), which are very dangerous due to their strong outgoing current.
- Fish during incoming tide for better results.
- Never fish alone and stay alert.
- Remember to dress warmly for night fishing.
- Respect swimming and water sports areas.
During summer, Landes guides offer surfcasting lessons. Inquire at the coastal Tourist Offices (Soustons, Mimizan, Hossegor, Vieux-Boucau, Biscarrosse, Capbreton).
photo@Joe Shlabotnik, CC BY 2.0, flickr
