Start out with a few surf practice sessions with no gear, so that you can get somewhat comfortable in the surf. Then maybe start out not taking the most expensive gear until you get more comfortable. Leash everything down and the worst case scenario is you have to take a reel apart & clean it or you break a rod. I have taken some diggers and have never broken or lost anything more valuable than a pair of sunglasses. On days like today you could launch & land at LJ blindfolded.
