I think live bait is WAY more fun but I would throw a kelp cutter if that is what it took.

Trolling them work to switch up for something new if you are seeing fish but no getting hit. Troll at live bait speeds- you will see behind the boat when they are swimming best.

Casting to jumpers works too. If you cast too close you will put them down. 90% of the takes come on the drop not the retrieve. So cast, controlled free spool and count to twenty or so. We have had hits on a steady retrieve but the drop is more productive.

Green and silver, blue and silver work just match the size and color to what is around. I used Berkely power 'chovys but they are too soft. Any anchovy pattern will work.

I am a boat ho in this case too and I cant wait to get out there again! August probably.

Good luck