I am new to off-shore fishing, but what are some great Baits/Techniques that I should start with, and where and how to fish them 

Big purple worms in the summer. Specifically the Rage Thumper, Blue Fleck.

Last weekend we were targeting smallmouth with thin, 3" tubes. Deep diving

crankbaits like the DD22 are another option. Lots of guys swear by flutter spoons,

but I catch too many rocks.

Big purple worms in the summer. Specifically the Rage Thumper, Blue Fleck.

Last weekend we were targeting smallmouth with thin, 3" tubes. Deep diving

crankbaits like the DD22 are another option. Lots of guys swear by flutter spoons,

but I catch too many rocks.

+1 on catching rocks with a flutter spoon.

Offshore fishing here in Souther Caifornia typically means 40+ foot of water. For these situations my go to rig is the drop shot. Heavy T-rigs, C-rigs, Jigs, and even Ice jigs (yes, those ice jigs) also fit the bill. Now trophy hunting with big 8"+ swimbaits is a whole other ball game.