Surf fishing the Outer Banks of N.C.

Question
best advice on rigging, knots and bait, going down on thanksgiving. Hurricane tore alot up.  Been going there for 3 years, hit and miss mostly, any tips would be apreciated.  Thanks

Answer
You have been there three times more than I have.  My surf fishing experience is mostly limited to Long Island, NY.  For specific help, I would very strongly recommend a local bait and tackle shop in that area.  Not Walmart or Sports Authority, but a small local shop.  Drop a few dollars on whatever baits and rigs the owner suggests, and ask specific questions about the where, when, and how.  If he has been in business for any length of time, the local information he has is without a doubt the most recent and up to date possible.  Tell him you have fished the area in the past, and intend to do so in the future.  By doing so, you are less likely to be taken for a ride by someone who wants to unload a bunch of ineffective tackle on an "out of towner" who he sees as a one shot deal.  Though this rarely happens, it is possible, and by indicating you are a potential return customer, it virtually eliminates that problem.  My experience fishing away from home has generally shown that most local tackle shops are reliable and accurate in how they treat out of town fishermen, especially if you show that you know enough about it so as not to appear like this is the first time you ever went fishing in your life and may never do it again.  Good luck!