I land up to 6 footers using large spinning reels casting from the beach. U need a large high quality high line capacity reel. Shimano Thunnis 16000f are what I use with 30-50 pound braid. When I have to cast farther to get past the breakers I go with the lighter line. 2 foot wire leader, then 4 foot 200 pound mono, then a 15 foot section of 100 pnd braid shock leader for casting and landing.
I prefer live bait. 5-8 inch fish hooked through the upper lip/nostril. Crabs are less likely to ruin a live bait.
Large circle hook and have at it. Check the NC regs for hook requirements. They had a major update on yhose.
