The last full week of September 2026 dragged with it a brand new weather pattern–separating East Coast surfers from the hot and generally weather-less end of Summer.
‘Twas a NorEaster filled with rain, wind, floods, and a metric fuck ton of swell along the Mid-Atlantic.
Many surfers spent more time in their vehicles, at gas stations, avoiding puddles, and watching weather models than actually navigating tubes. Anything to scratch that itch, right?
It also did not help that this was maybe the biggest swell of the year after a Summer full of nothing more than log and grovel sessions…
No, the flip switched into overdrive and it was time to get flogged–that is if you could make it to the beach.
Side note: F-ckn IG comments are insane LOL!
Yes, the storm was gnarly. It took with it vehicles and sandbars, and brought about tremendous joy, frustration, and insurance claims.
On the flip side, there were some standout zones with conditions that were well worth the drive. From memories looking down the line into drainers, to the Insta-proof posted to the web–there was no denying that there were some insane tubes to be had.
Plus, some locals around more precarious spots even enjoyed sessions alone after roads and bridges closed.
And as always, the most committed got the best waves. Through all the idiotic moments spent plotting and scheming to make it to the beach, it’s hard to remember the feeling after getting that one wave that makes all the BS worth the squeeze. More often, the little bitchass subconcious voice pokes and prods about the no-makes, the sinus infections, the gas prices, and all the reasons not to send it.
During this storm, so much happened in so little time that it left most surfers just begging for more. Despite the beatings, all who got amongst surfing the storm seemed thankful.
But now the next systems are being pondered…
Again, all look down the line toward the next occasion to see the ocean go apeshit–to be in position for the big one.
But as usual, East Coasters have little-to-no idea when shit might go down next. So, here’s to being at the peak next time it’s on–even if that takes quitting the job, calling out sick, not showing up to the birthday party or the alter…
Your turn now, Lake Atlantic.
PS) Anyone with photos to share, Rambler Surf Magazine’s 2027 Calendar is next on the to-do list. Get it touch via info at ramblersurfmag dot com with submissions–we can’t promise money or fame, but can promise some free calendars and reminders as to why we do this crazy shit. Thank You!
More content:
Re: some of the boys featured. Go Gravy!
NY IG Edit:
What else did we miss? More spot burns?