I second (or maybe that's 3rd...) the vote for raw shrimp. Try it weightless on a #2 to 1/0 Octopus hook. Hook it from the tail to the cut-off head and remove the 2 peices of shell closest to the cut/hook point. That helps with hooking up easier. Shad can be the next best bait. Partially fillet the shad and pin the flap back with the hook at the shoulder. Then put a half-hitch around the tail stub after cutting off the fin part of the tail. This will cut down any line twist if you have to reel in and help hold the bait on. Shad and Anchovies used this way have accounted for my top 5 California kittys (all over 15#s), but Shrimp gets more kittys.
Tight lines,
Wade