Making bait in San Diego Bay and Mission Bay

[james92026]

Well, I've been learning the strokes so to speak and am about ready to venture out BTB. I've a lot to learn I know, but was wondering what suggestions anybody has as to making bait for use in kelp beds. My intent is to use a Sabiki and bait tube. I would probably start with the Pt Loma Kelp and launch from either Lawrence Street or Shelter Island. Can bait species be found near structure such as piers? How about near the live bait barges? (or is that a no-no ?). Instead of a sabiki rod, I was thinking of using some sort of rolling pin to wind up the rig on using a hand line.

I do not have a fish finder yet, so it is not so easy to locate a bait ball on open ocean. (My inexperience in doing so notwithstanding).

Any help please?

TIA

James