First Yak, lots of questions!

[Jonesyak]

Hey guys,

I have been fishing out of San Diego for several years, however this is my first experiences fishing from a yak.

I got a hobie mirage classic for x-mas, I know it’s not the best kayak on the market for fishing, however I had to start somewhere.

Some of the questions I have are:

What are the best rod/reel combinations for targeting bass and butts near Del Mar and La Jolla?

What are the best plastic baits and jigs? I generally only fish with live baits and irons...

How do you make bait? Naive question but I have never had to do it before.

Where do you get into contact with the kayak fishing clubs, I often see large groups of people all launching or landing together?

Is a CA fishing license required for yak fishing? I assume it is.

What are good places to launch other than La Jolla shores?

How good a fishing finder should I invest in? So far I have only looked at very cheap ones for depth and structure readings...

What safety gear is necessary other than my life jacket and cell phone in a plastic bag?

Will I ever really need a gaff?



I would really appreciate any advice to help get me off on the right foot!

Tight lines,
Aaron