As Jon says, booms etc are pointless. I do occasionally use a zip slider, but that's only if I need to use a real big 1.5-2lb lead.
The less tackle the better.
I've been using penn reels for years in different forms. Apart from the cheapest Squall or the FS surf blaster (which I've never owned but seen) they have been faultless. I've only ever serviced them once and they are as smooth as the day I purchased them.
Welcome @lezz.
we hope you enjoy the forum and pulling any info out of those that are able to share.
We all look forward to your reports of catches and anything else you wish to contribute. 👍🏻
But if you lived 5-10 mins from the marina??
Let's get @Andy135 involved. He's had a trailerable boat (albeit in a compound), and a marina dry stack berth.
I don't think my family would enjoy the summer boating all weekend if the boat was on a trailer on the drive.
Kind of defeats the object of a relaxing weekend away from home!