I agree with the others on the biggest advantage being able to keep your line above the rolling surf. As mentioned most fish are tight to the beach so casting isn't much of an issue but when it comes to corbina I've found that being stealth leads to success.

I fish them just like I would fish a wild trout in a stream. In spring and summer when you see them feeding in shallow water they most likely can see you. It's better to stand away from the water either cast down the beach to them from a distance or drift a bait to them. This often means casting a light bait with very little weight a good distance. Many times a heavy weight will only spook these weary fish. I've had more luck with fishing a small split shot or even just fly lining a softshell crabs to them.

I fish 4lb string on an 8ft 6wt spinning rod which I like a lot. This season I'm going to wrap a 9ft 6wt spinning stick and give it a try. I feel I get better hook sets and have more control when fighting fish in the surf on the longer stick. I think it's more personal preference than anything. Those long noodle rods are sure a lot of fun when the corbina or bigger perch get going though. Good luck and let them go so they'll be there when I go out looking for them. I'll return the favor.

JerryG