Regarding shore fishing, you can fish from 15th St. pier, and the public pier at the end of the penninsula. As far as the rental skiffs go, they are just small boats with outboards. They are easy to control, but I don't know how much they cost. I would recommend saving the money you'd spend on the boat and buy a float tube. That way you can fish when ever you want, where ever you want. You can get a cheap tube at Big 5 for around $60 (probably what it would cost for a 2hr rental), get some fins (around $35), and some waders or a wetsuit. I can garantee you will have the time of your life. I've fished on boats twice since I bought my tube, and I fish for free at the landing I deckhand at. In the long run it is cheaper than cattle boats or renting skiffs. Email me or post if you have any other questions.

Amish Ed