What tackle to use
For plenty of fun go as light as a 5wt and up to a 9wt in windy conditions. An intermediate sinking line is recommended.
What flies to use
East coast fish will take small surf candies and baitfish profiles that resemble the small bait that these fish feed on. West coast fish will take much larger flies and poppers.
Fishing strategy
Early in the season use small, semi transparent flies like size 2 and size 4 surf candies with a tiny black eye.
Later in the season they will also feed on much larger baitfish - poppers and gurglers can be very effective.
Casting to visible schools that are feeding on the surface or casting in and around the wash areas around rocky headlands and beaches. Keeping the fly in the fish's feeding zone will produce the best results.