I’d definitely recommend a paddle tail. It’s been great especially in stained water or high wind days.

Solid fish!

I recommend amber or copper lenses for inshore or sight casting. I personally use Costas with a green mirror and amber lens. Other good brands are Smith and Purpose Built Optics.

You’re going to love that motor!

Congratulations!

I’d just leave them as they tend to get knocked off as the fish become more active.

I’ll do my best to keep things simple. A Ball Tail Shad rigged on a 1/8-ounce jighead is great when wading in thigh- to waist-deep water or use a 1/4-ounce when drifting. In thigh-deep or less water, I like to use the Wig-A-Lo, Willow Tail Shad, or Paddle Tail paired with a 3/32-ounce jighead. If it’s windy, I’ll use a 1/8-ounce. As for colors, I’ve listed those I recommend based on water clarity. This doesn’t mean you should go out and buy every color, but choose a couple of natural and dark colors that you’re confident in. Hope this helps!

Clear or Trout Green Water

-          Naked Margarita

-          Bone Diamond

-          Bart’s Sand Ninja

-          Lagunaflauge

-          Pearl

Stained or Dirty Water

-          Plum Perfect

-          Plum/Chartreuse

-          Texas Roach

-          Flomingo

-          Strawberry/Cool

-          Electric Grape/Cool

That’s awesome!

I’d check out Oso Bay near the naval base. With the lower tides, I’d wade the edge of the channel south of the bridge for trout.