Which ropes are you learning? If you're learning the yak-fishing ropes in general, then heading offshore might be something better done with an experienced mentor... There are lots of good opportunities along the ICW, or you can head south to Fort Fisher - it's got an enclosed basin, with barrier islands to the east and a seawall to to the west, protecting you from the shipping traffic in the river. Plenty of room to paddle down past Zeke's Island, and lots of different fish habitats to explore. It's pretty shallow in many places, so there's not a lot of boat traffic.
Of course, if you're an experienced offshore yak-fisher and it's the NC fish whose ropes you're learning, then TA's recommendation is probably gold.
And, 950, if you've already got a page in your calendar for June, see if you can clear the date for June 28. 2nd annual Kayak Fishing NC Meet'n'Greet, down at Fort Fisher.