Hi Ed, as someone who was on the beach pretty regularly, you'll need to know a few things. First, when you apply for your permit, they should give you a booklet on the rules, etc. In that book you will find a list of items to have in the truck at all times. Things like a military style folding shovel, a good size chunk of 2"x12" to put your jack on so it doesn't sink in to the sand. First aid kit, tow rope/strap, tire pressure gauge, small plug in air compressor, water, flashlight and gloves.
Make sure your vehicle is in good running order because having a 4wd tow truck come get you is rather expensive. Next, you'll need to let out some air from your tires. Start at half pressure, then go down if you keep digging into the sand. I used to go as low as 10psi on my truck. This lets the tire flatten and spread out so it 'floats' on the sand. Now if there isn't a gas station around the beach to air the tires back up, use the plug in compressor to get you home. Experience will tell you how much air to take out.
Drive gently, slow starts and steady speed will get you where you are going(no racing on the beach. Don't drive in the water! Park your truck with the rear end towards the water(makes it easier for the tow truck to get to your engine, also helps if there is an ocean mist from getting into your electricals). Know the tide schedule(pick one up at bait shop) Look to see how far up the beach the tide pushes any seaweed or other flotsam and park near that. I've seen more than a few trucks break down and end up under water as the tide came in.
Since this is essentially a 'beach buggy' pass, you must carry your fishing equipment with you and if you park, you must be actively fishing in case a ranger comes by. Now if and when you make it home, you MUST clean the truck! use plenty of water especially underneath. Think like sand, where can you get into and attack it with the hose. You'd be surprised where you will find it. Then vacuum the interior, as you will have sand in there too. A good under coating job is essential and keep the truck waxed because the salt will play havoc with the body. My old Toyota p/u literally rusted away, to the point that I took the entire bed off and made it a flatbed. I could tell you a lot more, but this is the basic stuff. Bob
PS: If you stop and ask someone, who looks like they belong on the beach, 'where are the fish biting?' He'll tell you a couple miles away. Stay where he's at and fish there!! I lost out on a lot of great fishing that way when I was new. Had to pay my dues before those guys would even talk to me. Good luck. Oh, if you need to, give a call anytime, 609-290-7566. I'm not that far away!
