Chunking the surf for large predatory fish is the oldest and most widely exploited method by surfcasters. A sand spike, if used properly, is an effective tool. To use a sand spike properly, you need a proper sand spike. The fancy PVC sand spikes in your local bait and tackle shops with a flanged top and aluminum stud at mid-spike are for tourists!
All you need to make your own custom sand spikes is a saw and a 10 foot length of 1 1/4″ PVC pipe. Cut the PVC pipe in half at 45 degree angle. You now have two sand spikes. Really!
What about the aluminum stud at mid-spike? You do not need one! The reason why the commercial sand spikes have the stud is because your rod but would hit the sand otherwise. The commercial stand spike also have much thinner walls and crack if you drive them into the sand with a piece of drift wood. Using a rubber mallet, drive your sand spike into the sand 12 – 18 inches and insert your rod into it. Your reel will stop the rod from sliding all the way down.
A 5 foot long sand spike has two advantages. The first is better leverage: the entire rod but pushes against the sand spike. The second is height: your line is kept above the breaking waves during high surf conditions.
The only other function my rod holders perform is measuring fish. I use a rule sticker works great. Marking your sand spike at 1′ intervals with a sharpie also works well. I am not a fan of adding cup holders to my sand spikes.
When you are chunking the surf via sand spike, reel in your bait every 15 minutes. Why? Scavengers! Skates, crabs, lobsters, and other bottom crawlers will eat your bait and politely leave your hook bare. Bare hooks do not catch fish!
