Rogerpc:
Thanks for the info, I really appreciate it.
As far as IOS I've been thinking about going out but am a bit concerned about my boats ability to handle a sudden turn in weather. I have a Scout with an 85 horse Yamaha, no kicker. It's a great boat but I havent ventured too far off the coast with it (mostly fish around Plum Island). Have you seen a lot of 17 footers out there? Also, what is the best kind of approach out there? Can you pick up live bait or do you use chunks and lures? Any info would be much appreciated.