Red Drum Surf Fishing

[tripp]

Hello all, I planning to head to Portsmouth Island to do some surf fishing for red drum in early/mid october. Last year was my first trip and attempt at surf fishing; I failed to catch anything except some sunburn. Does anyone have any tips on gear (rods, reels, hooks, rigs, bait)? I currently have a daiwa 10' surf rod, I'm thinking about buying the reel at this link Daiwa Emcast Sport Spinning Reels (the 5000 model) and using 17lb test line. Last year I fished mainly with fresh shrimp and cut mullet. Any info is appreciated.