1 - which set up would you recommend for that type of fishing. Pole, line, hooks, bait, lures, etc? I didn't want to go out and spend money on something since I'm a novice without asking first.
A spinning outfit is what your after minimum of 8 feet and longer if you want to make long casts in the surf... Pole and reel rated for 20 pounds or so will do.
2 - can you recommend techniques to fish those type of fish? I.e. Sinker needed for flounder and slowly reeling in for bass?
Lots of info on the site in the fishing tips section
http://www.njfishing.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=13
3 - do I need a license for recreational fishing?
Sort of, it's actually a state salt water registry and it's free
http://www.njfishing.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=13
4 - can I catch both those types of fish from those areas?
Yes you can but the seasons are different as are the methods... Stripers Spring and Fall using plugs and bait. Flounder/Fluke in the summer on the bottom using jigs or bait.
5 - lastly, the do's and dont's of fishing?
Too much to go into here.... If you are surf, jetty or bank fishing, give others their space and don't leave any trash behind.
Lastly, the surf has a much steeper learning curve for beginners since it's all about the location, putting in your time and hoping you are in the right place at the right time... I would suggest you take your son out on one of our sponsor party or charter boats. The likelihood of you catching something will go up dramatically and we all know kids get bored quickly...
Best of luck and glad you're getting your son into fishing.... I have a friend who got into it for the same reason. He and his son have a real passion for it now and get to spend a lot of quality time together which is priceless...
