I'm not sure how that particular hoist works, but maybe you could mount an additional pulley (like a climbing pulley) somewhere to use physics to your advantage. 

And what about the setting of the snare? A long pole lets you tighten the snares up effectively with a big pull, but what about trying to do that by hand?

It can work, just gently take up slack and it's a little more effort to keep constant pressure on the line.  I used to toss a snare off the jetty with a hand reel (Cuban yoyo) spooled with paracord, and it caught crab.  That was from shore, though, and a buoy might move the snare around, which won't catch much...
 
Probably not more effective than just pulling a hoop.

Seems like a decent start.

Spare paddle in the hull storage.  Most of the front, back, and sides of the inside of my hull is stuffed with pool noodles.  I also always have a knife or two clipped to me somewhere (mine is half serrated, which I find easier for cutting rope/line - YMMV).  Waterproof dive light is in my bag.  A few zipties and a length of rope in the front of my bag in case something unexpected breaks.  Fleece hoodie rolled up in the bag too, as an extra warm layer.  Extra bottle or two of water and a few granola bars is never a bad idea, either.

I'm sure there are other things to consider too, never hurts to be prepared.

I would consider an anchor and a trolley system as I have only been out 3 times but used an anchor each time for a little bit..... first time was just outside the jetty at Bodega with a ripping tide..... did not know much about anchoring (still dont) but tied off mid kayak and almost dumped it immediately.....

That sounds like a terribly dangerous idea.  I would never anchor in the ocean, or a high-current bay area like the Doran Jetty channel.

On the gun side, I’m looking at something that would be good for Point Conception up to Fort Bragg.  I do like the idea of a wood gun, but am open to suggestions.  If it makes sense, I am not opposed to two guns.

That's a decent range of water conditions.  For hole hunting rockfish, cabbies, and lings, a lot of people recommend something shorter, like a custom wood mid-handle, or a Pathos Laser Open Pro 60.  I have a Rob Allen 800, and it is a little on the long side for hole hunting (still works).  You could get something a bit longer if you get into shooting schoolie fish like WSB etc. 

Also, not a bad idea to spring for a nice, bright dive light. 

Other people on this site are far more experienced/knowledgable on all this stuff, though.

LOUD NOISES!!!   







To answer though, I'll be crabbin' and maybe poke polin'. 

welcome to the form! 

That must be why they are so angry... All those teeth with no toothbrush.

*"Ornery"