Finally ended up buying a cheap rod/reel combo for #50 from Army and Navy and a Floorwalker from Barry's tackle in Richmond.
Went out on Saturday just before high tide to Miners Bay north of Mayne Island, and fish were eager to bite anything. We were mooching with Herring, Hootchie Kootchie and got dogfish on the line almost instantly. They were big enough to bite the line off before we could try and get the hook out.
After half hour and no herring left I tried the Floorwalker and got a nice Lingcod (and released it). I had no time to measure it but would think 15lbs at least from looking at the picture?
Sunday at the same time, same spot, NOTHING, not a nibble. (but some nice rock crabs were in the trap at least)
That was my first time saltwater fishing, my arms still hurt from all the reeling, it was great though.