Pier 14

Targets: Red Drum, Flounder, Sheepshead, Black Drum

Rig: Carolina rig or float rig

Hook through the tail for natural swimming action. Keep in an aerated bucket.

Available at most pier tackle shops year-round

Targets: Whiting, Spot, Croaker, Pompano

Rig: Two-hook bottom rig (pompano rig)

Thread onto the hook. A little goes a long way. Best for bottom feeders.

Seasonal, best availability spring through fall

Targets: Red Drum, Black Drum, Bluefish, Sharks

Rig: Fish-finder rig on the bottom

Fresh is always better than frozen. Cut into 1–2 inch chunks for drum.

Year-round at bait shops; catch your own with a cast net

Targets: Sheepshead, Black Drum, Tautog

Rig: Small hook, light weight, near pilings

Hook through the shell from bottom to top. Fish tight to the pilings.

Dig your own in marsh mud or buy at tackle shops

Targets: Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Ladyfish

Rig: Cast and fast retrieve

Use a fast, erratic retrieve. Silver/pink is the classic color combo.

Available at all tackle shops

Targets: Pompano, Whiting, Red Drum, Sheepshead

Rig: Pompano rig with small hooks

Rake them from the wet sand at the waterline. Hook through the shell.

Seasonal, best in warmer months along the surf

Targets: Flounder, Red Drum, Seatrout

Rig: Carolina rig or under a popping cork

Hook through the lips for casting, through the back for drifting.

Year-round at bait shops

Targets: Spanish Mackerel, Bluefish, Jack Crevalle

Rig: Cast and retrieve, no weight needed

Silver for clear water, gold for murky. Let it flutter on the fall.

Available at all tackle shops