By Paul Lebowitz

If you can handle surf you’ll dramatically expand your fishing horizons. The best launch sites are protected from the prevailing swell inside a bay or behind a point. Look for beaches with crumbling surf. Avoid dangerous shore breaks. Watch the surf for several minutes before you launch. Soon you’ll discern the pattern of larger sets and longer lulls.

When launching, try to time it for a lull. Then go for it aggressively! Don’t slow if an approaching swell looms up. Usually it is possible to fight your way through. Lift your paddle above your head if the approaching wave is large; paddle right through small ones.

Landing is more difficult than launching. If possible, avoid the risks of surfing to spare your gear. Sneak up on the impact zone, the spot on the beach where most waves break. Wait for the biggest wave of the set to pass, then paddle in hard on its back. Soon the following wave will catch you. Lean slightly back to keep the nose of the kayak from pearling or digging in. Try to remain straight. If the wave pivots the kayak broadside, lean towards the wave onto the paddle, a maneuver known as a low brace. Keep your elbows low to avoid injury.

DON'T STOP - When launching through chest-high or lower surf, don’t stop or slow. Paddle right through the waves.

LEAN INTO IT - When a wave turns the kayak sideways during a surf landing, lean into the wave and brace or it will roll you over.

SHREDIN' - Practice in the surf zone is fun. With his fishing gear safely on shore, Jim Sammons catches a wave.