tackle: light tackle 7-8ft rod, 6-8# line,#4 or 6 octopus or circle hooks, 1/4 or 1/2 oz sliding egg sinker

bait:Live smelt or anchovies

Cast into the river mouth on the incoming or outgoing tide and work back slowly; sorry Im not much help Im still learning myself and am just passing on info that was passed to me hope it helps.

As for surf perch, Use the #4 hooks and a carolina rig, which is first weight(1/2oz or so)then a swivel, then about 2ft of leader then hook. you can use either lug worms or fresh mussel for bait.
cast just past the breaking surf and very slowy work the bait back in.
If you go to Bigfishtackle.com they have a couple of articles on light tackle surf fishing that are pretty good
good luck