I usually just tie a pyramid weight about 2 feet up from the hook and cast into the surf. Crab works best for me, rays seem to hit it much more than any other species does. Shrimp also works, but everything in the surf eats them, especially catfish. The catfish don't hit squid as much, but everything else does.

About equally as productive is trying to shoot them with a bow, assuming the right circumstances. Wading works when the water is shallow and calm, otherwise you need a boat, and again calm water.

Good luck, and watch that barb!