Yes , casting ability and line choice will help as size of streamers!
I use a Teeny WF mini tip works great , casts like a dream! Keep leader short 5’ or less , with stiff butt !
What are you trying to catch ??
The water temps will uptick rapidly now , everyday gets better , I would not wait just go ! I fish everyday for trout now it’s been very good !
Local bodies of water have flow charts etc , USG provides ! Get on the site and generally buoy can get water temps !
I have several pairs of Maui’s , use dark lenses offshore , use tan lenses stream fishing .
Always use some type of lanyard to prevent losses . These are glass and very comfortable / lightweight ! Not cheap but very clear view !
Just purchase a set crampons that fit over boots if your looking for sure footed traction on mst bottoms .
Felt is good on streams with moss or other slippery conditions . It s not great on snow or ice , crampons or cleated bootfoots reign there.
Daiwa Ballistic , intermediate price point !
Sealed , light and holds up great !
If your guide was really trying to put you on fish , looking for new spots , switch up on lures etc , then yes a tip is deserved .
If he doesn’t change up makes excuses and doesn’t exhibit anything effort to find better fishing , then I’d still tip but severely modified !
A good substitute for circles in some areas is the shiner hook which is simply a modified circle but works on the s as me principle .
I’ve found that hooking use correctly with circles simple point the rod at fish begin reeling as you slowly lift rod ! This allows the hook to be pulled out of the fish and catch on mouth hinge as they turn away !
I have used these hooks on flies and especially on big game they work very well
I generally picked up all boat affiliated expenses because I could . My fishing buddies would provide food , bait , drinks etc . Which was fine , however when diesel went over $4 per gallon , I still picked up inshore fuel , however offshore was a tad more expensive , so I would say before hand we would split fuel !
Still a bargain for them , I had a 33’ express which translated into lots of $$$$
Slippery , steep ramps always use a 4 wheeler , with limited slip rear ! Also don’t forget to chick up this could help in some situations . New ramp users make a check list until u get used to a routine
Best paddles out there “ EDGE “ rod company ! Check out their website !
Unit o uni is best for that application or blood knot ! FG is braid to mono ! In heavier monos you can use the non name knot !
Braid will last for years , I simply cut back most used portions and it holds up fine !
I’ve had some of mine on my saltwater rods over 5 seasons still tests like new
Finally you can reverse bottom of spool to top just add backing to fill spool if required
Sandy Hook ,Raritan Bay or Barnegat Bay are good locals for flounder ! Edge of channels or mud flats are come places to try. !
Don’t forget chum pot , use , clams mussels , place up current of boat . Bounce baits and use lightest sinkers that hold in current . Some add corn beads ahead of hooks , I’ve caught well with and without !
Good luck !