Toby Lapinski

Is the conventional (revolving spool) reel all but dead in the surf?

What is the most overrated fish that anglers target in your local surf?

They’re seemingly everywhere right now. Surfcasters, boat anglers—just about everyone is running into sharks, whether they’re the target species or an unexpected bycatch. And I’ll admit, they’re on my mind every time I step into the surf.

I’m going to make a bold statement today—one I never would have considered making 20 years ago.

So, whatcha wearin’ bro?

Some plugs have that elusive “it” factor — something that can’t be explained or duplicated.

This week I’m sharing a quick tip for followers of In The Wash—something I plan to do from time to time throughout the season.

The annual spring debate rolls on – weakfish or striped bass?

No, this isn’t a recipe post—it leaves a far worse taste in my mouth.

If you’re trying to improve with a particular tactic, scenario, or lure, putting yourself in position to succeed with it—even in small ways—can make all the difference.

On this week’s podcast episode (S3 E15), Sand Beach Bait: Transient vs. Resident Forage, we dive into an idea I reference often in my surfcasting discussions: the difference between transient and resident baitfish. In this episode, we specifically apply it to bait and a sand beach, but it’s a framework I regularly use when thinking about striped bass movements throughout the season.

As I’ve mentioned many times on the podcast, I’m not a big “match the hatch” guy. But when herring are around, I’ll soften that stance a bit—though I still can’t say it makes a huge difference in my overall success.