My recommendation is to use Offshore Planer boards. I have tried the yellow bird planer boards, but they just never worked right for me. I usually put a 1.5 ounce weight to hold down whatever bait I am using. Run them way out from the boat. I put two on each side of the boat. These boards pull out really good and stay there.

The preferred bait for stripers is shad, but I have never been successful catching. Don't have time, being just a weekend fisherman. I usually use shiners.