First Timer fishing tips

[kynan]

Hi guys, new to board, but have been surfing for a while.
Couple of questions, I have a new (old) boat, 19ft aquasport, currently docked on the Pawcatuck River.

My 9 yr old and I go out around Watch Hill every weekend. Earlier in the season we'd go out on the Mijoy out of Niantic to the Race. Decent Luck with that.

My problem is, I am tired of catching porgies and sea robins!!! I must of caught 30 robins on Sunday by the watch hill lighthouse. What do I need to do to catch some bass or blues?? I watch the surface, the birds, throw out some poppers, but no luck. Tried Mackeral, squid, etc...no luck. Nothing.

Did go out one night with a well schooled friend at night, w/ eels, off the south side of fishers island. He landed 2 bass. Me nothing, although I hooked up several times but no landing. I also got my first "cigar". I am wise not to try going out to Fishers by myself till I gain more experience. I do know the river and around Napatree point pretty well now.


Should I try different places, different bait during the day? Is it decent around napatree at night, and do I have to get as close to shore as I did off Fishers(like 30ft)?

Or should I string up a rod with eels and try a surf casting pole off east beach at night? Would I need to stun those eels to keep them twisting around the line? Are eels worth anything during the day? What about good spots for seabass?

I am dying to catch some bigger fish with my son, so any advice is welcome. I'm running a heavy pole w/ 30lb test right now, so should I go lighter?

BTW, did anyone notice more planes in the sky last night, that sure was good to see. You have to treasure each and every day now, each and every freedom we have.

Thanks.