Pequest Trout?

[Dave B.]

Based on his description of where he's been fishing I suspect he's within the TCA in which case any suggestion of bait use would be in-appropriate. Don't want to set the guy up for a ticket.
As Shucker pointed out while those fish may bw stockies they aren't blind or completely dumb. If they can see you they will get a case of 'lockjaw'. Also as 'Dino; says, those fish in the TCA get hit hard all year long. They've seen pretty much everything there is and have become pretty well educated as a result. Patience, stealth and a decent presentation will eventually lead to success. Also going on an overcast, rainy day or when the water is discolored will definitely up your odds of success.