SoCal Surf Fishing Rods and Reels [Fisherman's Access] Part 1 of 2

[@theoldsurffisher1943]

BK My wife got me an Okuma Rockaway RA S 10-2 rod for my 81st birthday. First time out on SF South Bay I caught an 18" striper on a Battle Star. Super nice rod. It casts all: LC, Calissa, Battle Star and Spook top water lure -GREAT! Balanced well! Out of my many, many rods this one may now be my favorite.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Ahhh this is awesome Ron, congrats on the new toy and finding a bite with it!! Hopefully many more to come. Glad you like the rod and looking forward to hearing what else you pin with it 🤙

[@SuperCoryjames]

Just did my second attempt at surf fishing and caught a 14in leopard shark off tamarack! I love how KZbin knew I would love this vid!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you so much for this comment Cory, this is really awesome to read. Surf fishing can be intimidating when starting out even if you're an accomplished fisherman so congrats on getting out there and finding success! Tight lines!

[@auggyboy284]

I use a Rockaway SP 8’6”med and a 10’ med rod. I fished beaches from Kitty Hawk to Oregon Inlet in North Carolina the past two weeks. They are amazing and truly underrated. Other people fishing were in disbelief at the weight and the power of both rods.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

This is an amazing testimonial...I would think the 1002 m+ might a better fit for the waters up there but that's so cool that it works for you in that context. And I 100% agree that these SP's are underrated. Extremely sensitive, has a nice shut off point, and the power is ridiculous. A buddy of mine landed what must have been close to a 50" guitarfish (no exaggeration) with the 8'6" ML and a 1k reel. I feel like you get a lot more than what you pay for with this rod.

[@overdbus]

Awesome, one of my favourite fishing shops, good service and advice on local fishing areas

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I am new to the shop but I absolutely LOVE the store and their staff. Jake runs a fantastic ship and it is a store worthy to call home. Tight lines!

[@michaelgieg]

Great video! We live in Irvine. Our son and I recently started fishing lakes, piers, jetties, a charter off Dana Point and are headed to the surf soon. I made the trek out to the store today over lunch. Had line loaded onto two Okuma's I found on sale recently, looked over rods/reels and bought several maps. Will be back soon, I'm thinking for a pair of 9' GLS rods and Inspira 3Ks or 4Ks. Going for budget + quality and forgiveness; plus want to throw LC's like BK!!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hi Michael! Thanks so much for the comment and excited for your new journey with your son. So much water to explore and so many memories to be made! The GLS rods are awesome as are the Inspira's. IMO, the bang for buck from those items are insane and I think you'll like them. Tight lines!

[@michaelgieg]

@@BenjieKimFishing No GLS for me today. I was set to get one. Called to confirm stock. The person I talked with confirmed and mentioned a promo where I could buy a X-Series reel and get a GLS free. I decided to try and make it from Irvine there and back over lunch. Time was too short. Store was a little busy. Went home. Called back just after 6pm to recheck stock for tomorrow morning. The sales person said, "all gone". And, "that the GLS promo rods were sold out first thing this morning". Bummer to get mixed messages regarding stock/promo and miss out. Oh well. I may still make yet another trip from Irvine for a GLS rod to pair with a yet TBD reel. Back to comparing brands.

[@tannerhauser5648]

That’s my local shop! Jake’s a good dude!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Jake is a new friend and he is LEGIT. You've got an awesome local shop to call your home. Tight lines!

[@Sammypeeonu]

Great vid with great info at my favorite shop FA 😎🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@snipergene]

Another great video Benjie! I love my Okuma Rockaway SP 8'6" ML. Will be picking up the 10' M+ next.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you Eugene, yes sir, I really believe that the 8'6" is an underrated rod. So sensitive yet has the necessary backbone for bigger stuff. Mike's guitarfish that morning was a perfect example of what that rod can do. You had a great morning out there today Eugene, congrats! And wishing you a great rest of the day!

[@Sweetaccord]

You just down the street from me! 😂 Great store and nice people, going there for years.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

This is awesome. I only saw the new store when filming this video and it is ridiculously AWESOME. Jake and the staff are all terrific and I think it might be the nicest tackle shop in SoCal. Thanks for the comment as always.

[@Sweetaccord]

@@BenjieKimFishing Welcome! Be safe and tight lines! 😊

[@JoeD.294.]

Great content Benjie. Living in Vegas i don't get out to the beach often as b4 but i want to get into surf fishing so i can have an excuse to get down to So.Cal more.👍

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Really appreciate the comment Joe, surf fishing is definitely a fun option we have here on our coastline. Tight lines!

[@johns8091]

Hey B.K, Great tutorial, took your advise n have been having a blast surf fishin! I am goin to costa rica n a few months and am looing for a good travel rod , 3 or 4 piece. any recommendations?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hi John, thank you for the kind comment. I'm not sure what and how you'll be fishing in Costa Rica (and also not sure what the gear recs are for fishing there...) but Okuma has a nice selection of travel rods in 3 to 4 pieces. Depending on what you plan on doing, check out the SST and Rockaway line of travel rods on their website. Hope that helps, Tight lines!

[@Fishingwithdaboys]

Great video Benjie I will go and check them out.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you so much always for your encouragement and checking out the vids. Really appreciate it. Wishing you a great start to the week!

[@Fishingwithdaboys]

@@BenjieKimFishing likewise brother! We need to link up again!

[@Jifnei]

Hey I was just there on Friday! Niceeee

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Awesome, it's a fantastic local shop!

[@GerHang-m7z]

My setup is okuma rockaway sp 1002 m+ with shimano nasci c5000xg....pulled 30+ inch stripers

[@BenjieKimFishing]

That sounds like a super legit setup, I've never owned a Nasci but I've held them and I've never heard anything bad about them. And it's a lighter profile reel so even the 5k wouldn't be oversized and would match up with the 1002 well. Good stuff!

[@frankmccarthy2624]

This is all Okuma. I’m partial to Penn. I’d like to see those equivalents

[@Smallaut]

Yay new video!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

gpod4lyfe

[@tomtran9442]

Would love to see a video on the X series rod and reel for this type of fishing.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hi Tom, this episode was filmed in April before the x-series was released but I just got the 3k x-series reel in my hands last week! So much to come on that in the coming months. Not considering the rod yet as of now though but we'll see.

[@KingKongKeon]

Great video, dense informative content

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Greatly appreciate the encouragement, tight lines!

[@_Lt__Dan_]

Take my money Fisherman's Access!!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

haha thanks for the comment Dan. Hope you can check out their shop, really spacious layout and great staff. Tight lines!

[@cambotheoutdoorsman6227]

When is episode two coming out

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Episode 2 has been out for quite awhile!

[@victoririzarry750]

10 foot odm Evo x paired with a 200vsx2 and it's go time

[@PaulTenenbaum]

About that GLS Custom towards the end of the video. There's an eleven-foot model rated for lure weight 3/8 - 11/2 ounces. It's a little heavier at seven ounces. Is that a good choice for the surf? Is there a reason someone would want the eleven footer over the nine footer? Will it cast much farther? Will it help when fishing over higher surf? In a nutshell, is there a reason someone would want the eleven footer to cast LCs and other lighter lures all day long in the surf, rather than the nine footer?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

The 11 footer will give you better casting distance. So might be a better option up north for fishing heavier rigs and getting that extra distance (matter more up there than down in SoCal). And yes, can be advantageous for getting better angles in higher surf as well. I haven't tried throwing the LC with the 11' so not sure how it'll be when it comes to distance and sensitivity but looks like the rating fits fairly well. IMO the 9' is perfect for SoCal, little easier for mobility and you're not going to lose out on opportunity for fish due to distance. Central Coast and NorCal might be a different story though. Just my .02

[@PaulTenenbaum]

Thanks so much Benjie!!

[@ryanschembri4139]

gls is good, use 902mh for everything

[@docfishingsrq]

So, I just got in a rock away sp and paired it with a Shimano FJ 3000 reel. I noticed that it is fairly tip heavy….do you guys use any lead tape or something similar to balance it out? I mainly fish Florida and NJ during the summer, but will use this outfit for NJ fluke off the beach.

[@ham5765]

hwaiting!!

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Thank you always Francis!! What kind of fishing have you been up to this Summer??

[@ham5765]

@@BenjieKimFishing mostly just watching the kids! lol. Been fishing a bit here and there.

[@PaulTenenbaum]

One more question regarding the GLS. With that shorter butt section, will it be harder to cast LCs father out? The SPs have those surf rod looking longer butts and I notice that Benjie uses all of it to cast lures. Will I be missing out on all that leverage with the GLS?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

IMO no. You do get that extra leverage with the longer butt but I've used a shorter butt for years and I wasn't lacking for distance. It's more a preference thing and with the 10' SP, it was actually designed as a bait and wait rod, which is why it has that longer butt. Some guys love it, others hate it...purely dealers choice imo.

[@PaulTenenbaum]

@@BenjieKimFishing Thank you, Benjie. That's so cool of you to take time out to reply!!

[@avangers_]

I’m trying to order the 10’ rock away but I like it says spinning. Is there a casting model?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Unfortunately there is no casting model, at least as of now.

[@Jifnei]

Hey can you tell Jake to get more LC110s. I watch your vids, go there to get one, and they’re always low on inventory and styles so put in a good word if you could man lol

[@BenjieKimFishing]

haha gotcha! Thanks for checking out the video and supporting that shop!

[@1966neal]

For a beginner fisherman, what type of Saltwater b fishing is best, Pier or Surf?

[@legitbetterthanvinny9725]

Benjie I’m looking for a new Okuma setup for SoCal surf. Primarily want to throw a 1/2 oz - 1 oz Carolina rig, lucky crafts, ~3/4-1 oz jigs or spoons, and larger 5 inch 1/2 oz swimbaits all on the same rod. Rn my primary problem with my current setup is casting distance, mostly on jerkbaits. Was thinking the Inspira ISX 3000 with 20 lb braid paired with the Rockaway SP 10’ M+. Do you see any weak spots with this pairing?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

The Inspira is a great option…especially at the price point. No anti reverse which can be a water access point. If you want to level up, check out the x-series spinning reel. Ive only recently fished it 3 times…incredibly smooth, lighter, and again..no anti reverse. It’s okumas flagship spinning reel. I can say that the Rockaway sp 10’ m+ is a fantastic option for the c-rig and jerk baits. Haven’t thrown Swimbaits or jigs/spoons on it so can’t speak for that. I primarily throw the lucky craft 110 and I’m incredibly happy with the casting distance and sensitivity. If possible, make sure you’re ok with the longer butt/handle. Some love it, some hate it. Totally subjective. 20 lb braid is solid. I recommend trying out daiwas new x-braid. Been using it the past few times out and I love it so far. Seems to increase casting distance based on my short time using it. Tight lines!

[@marceloamador92024]

Would definetly try Daiwa saltiga PE braid line, easily cast further , thinner and its just smooth when reeling in.

[@Ash_showl]

Was this today? Dang I wanted to stop by today. Are you still with phenix rods? I just bought a trifecta 904 a few days ago for a fishing trip. I got to the fishing hole and was setting it up and noticed the rod tip was bent and not in line with the rest of the guides. I called the shop I bought it from and explained I was there 20 mins prior and noticed the tip was defective as I was setting up. They would not let me return/ exhange and told me all sales are final…

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I'm no longer with Phenix but I loved fishing their products in the time I was with them. I will not backtrack on that. The company was sold in November 2023 to a large conglomerate and their local SoCal warehouse and all inventory was moved to Texas after the sale. Everyone I had built a relationship with is no longer affiliated so I can't speak to how their brand functions today. It's a bummer to hear your experience, it really is. I would encourage you to reach out to the company and fight for your right as a customer. Unfortunately, your story is not the first time I've heard something like this since the ownership change. Tight lines!

[@Ash_showl]

@@BenjieKimFishingman that’s unfortunate. Yeah I saw that they were sold which is a bummer. I’ll be checking in today to fishing access and checking out the reels you’ve recommended. Thanks for the vids man

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Greatly appreciate your comments man, thank you. If you are able to make it there, I think you'll love it....really nice shop with great staff. Tight lines!

[@mauropotiguar]

So, I am shopping for new reel. Looking at the ITX CB it says its a freshwater reel. Is that right ???? Just trashed a kastking reel, horrible.

[@moxiegames151]

nice

[@thomaskong5]

Retitle “okuma fishing ad” 😂

[@Rooki3_]

They should’ve thrown in some alternatives for each Okuma. But yes, this is an ad video.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hi fellas, thank you so much for your feedback, really appreciate it 🙏. These are fair comments and I receive them. I promise that my intent was not to make this video an ad, but at the same time I can see how one can view it as such. I also promise to consider this perspective when making future videos like this. I've made my fair share of "shop videos" over the years and I've always heavily featured products/companies that I have a relationship with, but also admitted my subjective situation. One thing I've alway stated in previous videos is something to the effect of "while we are featuring this company in this video, please use these specs as guidelines for whatever product/company you love." I did not do this in this video as I ASSumed that everyone would know my heart (which is to help newer fishermen start their journey). And that is 100% on me. I will strive to be better thanks to you. Thank you again for the comments and thank you also for taking your valuable TIME to click and watch this video. Our time on this earth is so limited and the fact that you took a few minutes to click and watch is not lost on me. Regardless of whether you come back, I wish you the very best in all things....not just fishing. Blessings and love. Tight lines!

[@theother9615]

what about new daiwa fuego 23 line 3000 is only 7.2 oz and 100$.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Yes, definitely a solid option. I used the older edition Fuego LT for many years. Not sure of the strengths and weaknesses of the new edition. Very smooth and lightweight and a solid entry level reel option similar to the ones we featured in this video.

[@xiong2b]

It's hard to trust people who only promote a certain brand because they are sponsor or part of that brand. I'm pretty sure that tackle store carries more than just one brand.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I appreciate the feedback! This isn’t the only comment that’s shared this sentiment. It’s tricky with the sponsorship but I’m gonna try and see how I can make it more inclusive in future vids. Trust is earned, not given so I don’t take those who do for granted. Thanks again for sharing regardless of whether you check out future vids. Tight lines and blessings!

[@klywrx]

Is this an okuma commercial?

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Certainly not my intention and thank you for the comment. Really helps me know what people are seeing and thinking.

[@erniebanaga7563]

Does anybody know where I can buy the Okuma sp 1002 m+... today

[@cuauhtemocramos2674]

That shop so far from beach lol

[@BenjieKimFishing]

True. But for those who live close to the shop, could still make sense. Tight lines!

[@jimt5683]

lc surf minnow sucks! no distance at all

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Everyone is free to use what they love and works for them. As well as expressing opinions. I do disagree with the "distance" remark. I don't need to be right. Wishing you a great week and many blessings.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

The LC110 absolutely has a weight transfer system. That's just a statement of fact. I will say that even small winds can affect distance with the LC110. Just checked out your striper, nice catch! Tight lines.

[@Ducky2o]

@@BenjieKimFishing You are 100% right. A few weeks ago I wanted to buy a luckycraft but when I picked it up it did not have a weight transfer system. However, I see on amazon the flashminnow does have a weight transfer so I really dont know what type of luckycraft I was holding. I even asked the employee at the tackleshop who said all the luckycrafts they carry don’t have weight transfer systems. At the end of the day most fish don’t need a 200 foot cast to see the lure anyways😂. I’ll definitely pick up a luckycraft when my perch bite picks back up and I deleted my initial comment to not confuse anyone. 👍🐟

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Deeply appreciate reading your response, thank you 🙏. The LC flash minnow is my favorite thing to throw in the surf. That doesn't mean it has to be everyone else's favorite too. But I'm gonna share and film using the stuff I enjoy using...and everyone else should do the same! Wishing you an abundant season out on the surf, tight lines!

[@Ducky2o]

@@BenjieKimFishing I also wish you a great season. Love the videos! 👍🐟

[@FORTUNENGLORY]

ITX CB needs a Salt water specific model. Seal It, and make it corrosion resistant.

[@BenjieKimFishing]

I agree that a sealed reel that is smooth and lightweight is ideal. Not sure that it's possible. Van Staal and a few other companies make sealed reels that are very nice. I've never owned a sealed reel as such but I have held them. A little heavy and not as smooth. A fair tradeoff in my opinion. You also pay for that advantage and for those that can afford it, it is a very valid option. The ITX CB is built for freshwater and inshore and obviously not sealed....like the vast majority of reels sold and marketed for the SoCal surf market. I'm not quite sure what you mean by corrosion resistant, but this reel was built for the rigors of saltwater inshore fishing. I have zero issues with how the reel and how it is marketed. But that is my personal experience only and I cannot dismiss your experience or others. Thank you for the comment and tight lines!

[@FORTUNENGLORY]

@@BenjieKimFishing I bought an ITX CB on your recommendation. I ended up using it for freshwater fishing and will likely buy another or 2, great reel. I used Penn Authority 4500s (my preferred surf size) but switched to the Van Stall VR50 to save weight and wear and tear on my bad shoulder. The Authority is a great reel, but is a tank. Some manufacturers use certain stainless steels or ceramic parts to add "corrosion resistance".

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Gotcha, thanks so much for the reply. I really do love my ITX cb but in no way is it the end all be all, sounds like you’ve got the right gear to suit your style. The vr50 is def nice to have for sure.

[@docfishingsrq]

So, I just got in a rock away sp and paired it with a Shimano FJ 3000 reel. I noticed that it is fairly tip heavy….do you guys use any lead tape or something similar to balance it out? I mainly fish Florida and NJ during the summer, but will use this outfit for NJ fluke off the beach.

[@erniebanaga7563]

Does anybody know where I can buy the okuma sp 1002 m+ today

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Hey ernie that’s a tough one, they’ve been kinda hard to find lately. Your best bet is to call around a few local shops. I do know Okuma has restocked fairly recently so hopefully one of your local stores have a few.

[@erniebanaga7563]

@BenjieKimFishing Hey Benjie I put a reserve on one earlier today ,they said there in back order....but I went ahead an bought the trifecta 903 with the fuego 🔥 3000 with 20lb VARIVAS ABSOLUTE PE braid, I can't wait to try it out this weekend...

[@BenjieKimFishing]

Oh awesome, thanks for the update. I think you'll love the TRL/Fuego combo, was great for me when I was using that setup.