I got it for the first time 6 weeks ago. It was quite mild in the infectious stage. But it doesn't seem to have gone away - feel rather lethargic and coughing, also a bit of brain fog. The latter might be why I got a hook in my thumb (first time I have done that). It was in really deep so it was off to the Emergency Department. Tip - 2 hook rigs are dangerous when de - hooking a fish. Think about using single hook or be very careful. Perhaps cover the free one with Styrofoam or similar. Definitely use tools like boga grips and hookout or long pliers.
Quite a complicated motor but plenty of 2 stroke punch as well as being frugal on fuel. If you like the boat and the motor goes well on a water test then go for it.
No need to keep them salted permanently. Just put then on newspaper with a layer of salt in the fridge overnight to 24 hrs. Then put the bait in plastic bags and freeze.
Obviously a case of poor fishing skills and therefore low expectations. It sounds like you are trying to make a case for declining fisheries though, eg "sign of the times", "bag limits and stuff like that".
Harbour kings are very fussy. Live bait or very fresh squid would be a better bet. Also small snapper and other pickers will make short work of pillies.
It's rare to catch them from the river breakwall. Live baiting is not really a proposition for the reason you mentioned.
The walking trail leads to the ledge at Hat Head. It's not hard to work out from the map (it's a state park) and follow the trail from Hat Head. It's a rather long walk though and one bit is particularly hairy with a tiny path in the side of a hill and a few hundred meters steep decline off to one side. There is another trail from the south (Gap Beach I think). It looks about the same distance but I haven't tried it.
I don't know about that. Better for tailor and salmon in winter. Also less competing for space with surfers and other beach users. Westerly winds are good for casting distance too.
Having a little boat you can handle yourself. This might be in addition to an outside boat. I don't always feel up to outside fishing (allergies, working all week), but I'm usually up for a trip in the little boat. Less work, back in good time.