The Essential Guide to Super Strike Plugs for Surf Casters

When it comes to surf fishing, few lure brands hold as much weight as Super Strike. These premium plugs have become a staple in the surf casting community, offering reliability, versatility, and effectiveness right out of the package. Jerry Audet, managing editor ofSurf Casters Journal and co-host of theSurf Cast podcast, recently shared his insights on why every surf caster should have Super Strike plugs in their arsenal. Let’s break down his expert advice on how to maximize the potential of these lures.

Why Super Strike?

If you’re new to surf fishing or looking to upgrade your plug selection, Super Strike is an excellent starting point. They provide high-quality, consistent performance at a reasonable price. Many anglers believe that if you stocked your entire tackle bag with only Super Strike plugs, you’d still be well-equipped for almost any surf fishing scenario.

A major misconception about these plugs is that they are limited to specific conditions. Many online forums, social media discussions, and seminar speakers suggest that each Super Strike plug has a strict, single-use case. However, Jerry debunks this myth, emphasizing that these plugs can be adapted to different conditions based on angler technique.

Breaking Down the Super Strike Lineup

1. The Darter

Often considered a niche plug meant for strong currents and inlets, the Super Strike Darter is much more versatile than it gets credit for.

• Where to Use It:

  • Flats, sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, estuaries, and even calm waters.

  • Any area with moving water, including tidal currents, outflows, and wind-driven sweeps.

• Why It Works:

  • When retrieved, the Darter creates a subtle side-to-side shimmy, mimicking a wide range of baitfish and squid.

  • It’s an excellent nighttime plug but can be used effectively in the day.

• Pro Tip:

  • Try fishing the Darter over breaking waves where it will catch the wave action and create an enticing erratic movement.

2. The Needlefish

The Super Strike Needlefish comes in multiple sizes and sink rates, offering flexibility in a range of surf fishing conditions.

• Slow-Sink Model:

  • Ideal for swinging in currents similar to a bucktail jig.

  • The largest size is particularly useful for covering water and mimicking large baitfish.

• Fast-Sink Model:

  • Best for deep water and heavy current conditions.

  • Can be effective in burly conditions like strong wind and heavy surf.

• Small Model:

  • Great for back bays, estuaries, and smaller bait scenarios.

  • Works well with tip action and a more active retrieve.

• Common Misconception:

  • While many anglers assume these are only effective during a sand eel bite, they can imitate multiple types of baitfish.

3. The Bullet

• Best Used For:

  • Swinging like a bucktail over structure, in current, or along beaches.

  • Works well in the fall when smaller bait is more prevalent.

• Action:

  • Offers a unique vibration that mimics injured baitfish.

• Pro Tip:

  • If you love fishing bucktails but want more casting distance and durability, add the Bullet to your lineup.

4. The Bottle Plug - Little Neck Swimmer

A plug that has fallen out of favor but still holds incredible potential.

• Common Misconception:

  • Many believe it’s only for rough conditions, but it’s useful in many scenarios, including calm waters.

• Action:

  • Aggressive swimming action that displaces a lot of water, making it great for attracting fish in rough or turbid waters.

• Pro Tip:

  • While some anglers drill out the rattles, leaving them in can be beneficial, especially at night.

5. The Little Neck Popper

One of the most well-known Super Strike plugs, but often misunderstood.

• How Anglers Commonly Use It:

  • Many use it strictly as a popper, tapping it along the surface repeatedly.

• How You Should Use It:

  • Try a slower retrieve with occasional strong pops to create a struggling baitfish illusion.

  • The bigger 3-ounce version offers more disruption and stability in choppy waters.

  • These can also be swum like a traditional swimmer plug, not just used as poppers.

• Pro Tip:

  • If fishing at night, opt for the Black Eye version or the slow-sinking model for better results.

6. The Heavy Little Neck Popper

• Best Used When:

  • You need maximum casting distance or want to get a baitfish profile far out into the feeding zone.

  • Works well in heavy surf or when targeting fish at long range.

• Retrieval Tip:

  • Unlike the standard popper, this one can be swung in current similar to a needlefish or bucktail.

How to Integrate Super Strike Plugs into Your Fishing Strategy

• Start Small: If you’re new to Super Strike, begin with the Darter and the Needlefish. These are two of the most versatile plugs in the lineup.

• Experiment: Many anglers get caught up in rigid fishing rules. Don’t be afraid to test different retrieval speeds and techniques.

• Modify When Necessary: Removing the rear treble hook and replacing it with a flag or a single hook can improve release mortality rates and overall plug performance.

• Build Over Time: Rather than buying everything at once, add one new Super Strike plug to your bag each month. This will help you master each plug before moving on to the next.

Final Thoughts

Super Strike plugs are some of the most effective, well-built lures available for surf casting. Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been fishing for years, these plugs offer unmatched versatility. By understanding how to use each one correctly, you can significantly improve your success rate in the surf.

Make it a goal for the upcoming season to try a Super Strike plug you haven’t used before. You might just discover your new go-to lure!