I spent many a summers fishing off the pier. I used herring exclusivly. i would float it with no weight if the current was slow or slack. If the current was moving i would use 1/2 to 3/4 ounce weight and about 4-5 ft. of leader. one summer i caught 7 kings ranging between 8-24 lbs. All off the pier. pretty good summer off the dock.
Just remember to pinch the barbs gamies are watching
_________________________
cordog