Fly rod is fun too. I like sight fishing in the backs of coves during low water periods. It's a challenge because carp spook easily, but they will eat an artificial fly that is presented softly. It's like fishing for bonefish in the keys, but a lot cheaper.
Is fishing off the docks where boats put in and take out permitted around Corps of engineers launches at Stockton? There are designated fishing docks near by and sometimes in sight of the launches. Just curious.