Yep, a reel, nothing special but able to hold fishing line from 12 to 20 pound test. This allows a good cast but is still strong enough to bring in the fish. A surf rig with one or two bait holder hooks. Many currents will roll smaller weights or round type bank sinkers into other anglers lines causing a nasty stare. I've seen it, its not a pretty site.
Bloodworms work the best.
Clams are a good back up bait. When the water is still cold, the Stripers are not likely to take bait like eels yet. I have read some research that suggests that slow moving fish from cold water tend to eat foods that are the easiest to digest. The angler who regularly puts fresh bloodworms on his rig consistently catches more fish. It is recommended that one large worm be put on a hook.