I am by no means an expert so take this for what's it's worth. I fish east of of Destin, FL twice a year for a week. Almost all my fishing is done from shore (not a dedicated trip/it's where we take family vacation) I mostly blind cast with the occasional sited fish, depending on condition. My preferred setup is a floating line with 10ft sink tip(to cut chop). I run 16lb tapered leader with either 16 or 20 Fluoro tippet. I have caught 7-8 different species on a chartreuse/white clouser. (Jacks,ladies,reds,specs,tons of ladies,pompano,etc)
Not sure about the license deal. I'm from Texas and have never had an issue fishing from the beach with a 7 day out of state license.
If you are on a flat, bonefish could be an option and maybe some baby tarpon. Both will take a clouser.
