Doc,
Hello welcome aboard
, I am a kayak fisherman. I live in northern new jersey also. I fish the Raritan bay a lot, I try to go every weekend weather permitted. if you want to try the bay a few good spots are Leonardo, on route 36. it is next to the ammunition pier earl. do not get close to the pier you will be given a escort by CG, OR EARL Navel staff.
before the Earl Navel pier is a town called Belford there is nice flat area there. verity of species of fish to catch. great learning place.
Also if you go to Google earth download the program and look for these towns I mentioned also Google earth will show you plenty of places to launch from free.
also another place to go is Sandy Hook. mind you this place fills up quick, before 7:00am it is free after you pay. there again is place you need to use Google earth, look for horse shoe cove, the bay itself you can launch from anywhere.
Next being on the after all day in the sun drains you very quick watch out for that.
Most off all pay attention to the tide's don't want to fight the tide. also always wear your PFD. People that don't think they are the best swimmers In the world OR THEY JUST DONT NEED IT. When you fall out and get hit on the head and knocked out no one is there to put it on you. to many kayakers have died this year, that is why I stress this issue.
I am going on vacation when I get back maybe can hook up I can introduce you to a few kayak friends and you can see the places and spots we go to.
Dale