I've fished in Port A for years and now looking for something new. A friend mentioned Big Shell as an option. I headed out to Big Shell this past weekend just to see what it was like and i loved it. I went down to mile marker 55 in my 4x4 Tundra with regular sized tires. I was a little nervous at first, but the truck did very well in the loose sand. I think it had rained the previous day so i'm not sure if these were better than normal conditions. I saw many people with awesome rod holder setups, tents, amenities, kayaks, etc. I would love to go back to stay for a couple of days and fish maybe 3 or 4 times a year. If you have experience at Big Shell can you give me advice, tips and tricks on what type of things to take? I have a 10' single axle trailer i can use to load stuff on to. My first idea is to buy a 35 gallon drum to fill with water for rinsing off. What type of Kayak should i use to get to the second sand bar? What type of emergency equipment to pack? Generator? I pretty good with my hands and like to build stuff, so making special equipment is an option. I'd love to hear what you do. Thanks...

Glad you liked what you saw. PINS is amazing. Beach conditions are always changing so there
really is no normal. Some days, the driving is highway smooth; others, it's practically impassable.

1-361-949-8175 is the number to call when planning a trip. It is a pre-recorded message that is updated daily
giving conditions on the beach, driving, weather, fishing, tar balls and even jellyfish.

For emergencies, a shovel is the bare minimum. then maybe a high lift jack, tow strap and some chains.
Then maybe a can or two of fix-a-flat and a tire plug kit.

If you plan and pack properly, a trailer isn't necessary for a night or two stay on the beach. A hitched mounted
carrier should be sufficient for extra gear.

35 gallons is a bit much unless your trucking the whole family. Aqua-tainer has a 7 gallon BPA free water container
that should be plenty enough for 1-2 people.

If you wade out or have long casting gear, the second gut can be easily accessed. A kayak is only needed is you want to
get large baits out past the third bar in hopes of big sharks.

Hope these tips help you out. See you on the beach!

Thanks for all the great info Beer Snob.

Everything Beer Snob said plus

I take a come along and anchor in case no one is down there (I don't have a winch and I try to go when it is not busy).

I take 21 gallons of water which lasts three people three days

To take a pop up canopy and sleep in it although many take those tent cots

Take lights (I use battery powered string lights) so drivers can see your camp

You can usually get phone service if you climb the dunes, at least at the jetties.

Avoid sharkathon unless you like company...lots of company.

I rinse off salt at the parking lot by the showers and try to get there before the showers close

I try to time arrival and departure at low tides

October is my favorite month to go.