Ron, you have probably asked the best question ever to be raised on this site; which means you will get the most unrewarding answers.

Whilst most people will phrase their answer with the challenge and he result, my answer would be, and this with over sixty years experience, simple enjoyment.

Whether it be a specimen or simply a fish such as the humble Kahawai, if it fits in the frying pan, the expedition has been a complete success.

I would suggest there is more bullshit written about surfcasting than any other other sport. Sure we occasionally latch on to a specimen but most times we don't. The complete joy of surfcasting is solely participation. Should we rely purely on results, most anglers would have given the game away within weeks of starting.

You don't believe me? Count the anglers who hit the beach with a packet of squid for bait and a hot pie from the local dairy, plus a six pack. They don't expect to catch fish, they hope, and frequently they live up to expectations, time after time after time. Does an empty bag discourage them from going again? ... Not on your life.

That's called fishing ... and on a personal note, long may it remain so.