They migrate up in the gulf following bait that comes up as the water warms up. Then they come in the bay systems through the passes. At this time they are concentrated in big schools, so trolling through with 3 hook straw rigs is how most tr caught. Drifting in the area and casting spoons at them is also fun.
You are correct, light tackle is definatly more fun. I usually troll with 20 lb line on small freshwater bass rods w ambassador 5000 reels. With 3 or 4 hooks in the water. Not unusual to have multiple hook ups.
That bottom pic is out in the gulf, when they bay water is dirty, they run the beach