big rods and baits

[MrCat]

Ok, I've been reading up, and found that quite possibly the shoreline here that is all covered in rocks and weed may actually be great fishing with the right kit!

I want to catch some bigger tastey fish than mackerel (who won't be here all year anyway).

I've purchased myself a 13' beach caster and just yesterday arrived a reel I have to confess I made a vague stab in the dark about when I bought it online. it's a Shakespear tidewater (xd80) ...it's huuuuge!

My heaviest line I have is 15lb, and I only have 100m of it (is that enough? someone said a reel spool should be filled to the brim always?) and I guess I'll want a heavier shock leader on it for general use.

I also want to ask about bait...I'm guessing it's always better fresh, but what kinds of bait keep the best over time?

I've heard 'lug worms' or 'lots of muscles' in terms of cod. is there a general allround bait or do you just need the different kinds for different fish. (I have a reasonable few smaller mackerel in the freezer).

Cheers folks

Ought to buy a rod ret next I guess! hooorah, maybe I'll be able to sit down at last