While I have a couple of friends who never use stripping baskets, I find it to be a necessary item. Not only does it keep the line away from abrasive barnacles and sand but makes it easier to shoot line. It also keeps stray loops out of the surf where the combination of waves and seaweed can quickly create some unbelievable tangles.

I made my own many years ago when I started fishing the beaches. A Rubbermaid plastic dishpan and a couple of dollars worth of web strap and plastic buckles from Seattle Fabric created a serviceable item that I'm still using today.