Long Rod specifications for the surf

[ztesta]

I am new to surf fishing for big game and have had some success so far I just have a few questions about my rod.

I currently have a Penn pursuit 10' rod 2-6oz 20-40pound test.

I know I'm casting over 50 yards (because I have 50 yards of flurocarbon attached to my main line). Is this rod alright for wjat I'm doing or is a 12' or 13' rod really worth it?

[Pinoyfisher]

Seems fine to me. You may or may not get more distance, but based on your recent reports, you're reaching that zone where the fish are. Distance isn't just dependent on rod length, there's also the type of rig you're using, sinker weight, the reel, the type of cast, your form... so many variables. A 50yd cast with bait is a pretty decent cast to me.

[ztesta]

Alright sounds good. thanks man!

[BackBayMan]

You're catching fish, so you know what you have works

A longer 13'-15' rod is nice because it keeps more of your line out of the surf and gives you a longer lever against the fish, but then it also gives the fish a longer lever against you

And I'll admit that I like at least 30lbs of drag in my reels. Had a freaking ray run on one of my smaller reels last week and even though I slowed him way down, the sucker still got more than 150 yards down the beach from me before he stopped. After that it wasn't so much of a fight, more like dragging a wet bag of cement.

[Latimeria]

A longer 13'-15' rod is nice because it keeps more of your line out of the surf

That's the biggest part, especially when grass and weeds are moving by in the current.  It also keeps your line over many of the waves which helps on drag... and weeds if they are present. 

[ztesta]

Thanks guys I think I'm going to invest in a longer rod.

[sasquatch]

Thanks guys I think I'm going to invest in a longer rod.

Good idea. You might not need it but it won't hurt to have it.