Grand Isle Questions.... Several of Them

[Average Fisherman]

Hi all. I've lived in LA for eleven years, and last year found myself standing in the surf in 35 mph wind, "fishing" a popping cork with a shrimp under it in 3-4 foot waves. I say this because, while I'm somewhat book smart, I can do terribly stupid things if not pointed in the right direction. By the end of the year, I'd caught red and black drum, some decent sized gaff tops, and enough hardheads to fill a WalMart. So I made some progress. I kind of learned how to set up a small rig for the surf, and I learned that weather was more than an optional thing to check on.

So, in two weeks, I'm taking my dad, who's from Missouri, down to Grand Isle. We have disguised this fishing trip as a quick family getaway, by renting a house on the beach, and bringing wives and kids. My two targets will be fishing the surf (weather dependent) and hitting the fishing bridge. So in no particular order, here are my questions......

1. What kind of fish should I target at the bridge, and in the surf? Seems like reds and blacks should be biting, but I'd love to catch a few specks if possible.

2. I want to get a decent rod and reel for the surf. I have several decent bass rods, but want one (maybe two) set ups that I can get out past that second sandbar. I'd love to get my dad hooked into a nice bull red. Budget for one good combo is $150-$200.

3. When I'm fishing the big rig, I plan on using cut mullet. What size weight, and should I just set it up Carolina Rig style? If cut mullet isn't what I should be using, let me know what would be better. I have a cast net, but watching me throw that is more of a comedy routine, than productive bait gathering avenue.

4. Any other general thoughts are appreciated. Thanks a lot! Hopefully, in two weeks, I'll be posting pictures of my grand day at Grand Isle!!