Jersey Shore in September

[Chris James]

I've been more of a lurker here the past year but I'm hoping someone with experience up that way can enlighten me. 

We're planning a trip up to see my in-laws labor day weekend in Monmouth county, I fished some of the jetties earlier this year without much luck on traditional tackle with plastic jigs and spoons. I have an 8wt with both floating and sinking lines so I have that covered. Does anyone have any tips on flies to use? Assume Clousers of various colors and the like. Is a bite guard needed with bluefish being around? Dawn and dusk for the best bite?

Thanks