Coastal Kayak Fishing

[erayyak]

I am sure if I took the time to search, I could find the answers to many of my questions, but this way I am practicing my typing skills. Plus I want to tap your expertise and knowledge.

My primary fishing is Inshore. Which in Florida was grass flats, mangrove shorelines, creeks, bays and rivers. Usually 12 to 36 inches of water. Near shore or jetty inlets were considered Offshore, at least to me. So I am wondering what would be comparable 'inshore' waters here in NC.

Seasons: In Florida, it is year around fishing. With late Spring, early fall being best. Although, dead of winter and heat of summer can also be good depending on species. My guess is spring and fall here are the best times as well. With a 4 hour drive to saltwater, rather than 15 minutes as I had in Florida....planning trips around good times of the year will be crucial.

Gear: I use 7 ft to 8ft light to medium, fast to moderate action rods. With 20 (2000) to 40 (4000) series spinning reels...depending on your manufacture of choice. I use all Quantum: Cabo Rods, Cabo and Catalyst Inshore Reels. Spooled with 15 to 25 lb braide from either Power Pro or Suffix. With an 18 inch flurocarbon leader (Yozurri, Seaguar or Suffix). Will that be appropriate here as well?

Lures: My go to confidence lure is the 1/4 oz Near Clear (#312) DOA Shrimp. I also like jerk baits and jigs. Usually Capt Mike Flats Candy or Exude Darts. Colors: gold, clear, white, chartruese or root beer depending on water color. Florida is mostly clear to tannin stained. Been using the new 17M MirrODine from MirrOLure a lot. Great lure. And I also like throwing Topwaters, primarily MirrOLure Top Dog or She Dog. Then lastly a Gold Spoon, I use Captain Mike as well. So what do you think of those choices and colors?

Cant wait to get down to the coast for some fishing. Thanks in advance for sharing any information on the above topics.