whats first?

looking to make a few upgrades and get out on the water this coming weekend... any tips?
I will be fishing off the coast of Santa Cruz and wanted to add a pole holder and.... idk what else is essential before I go out next weekend. I am new to fishing and kayak fishing so just seing if anyone had advice for going after rockfish and halibut in the area and what else I should get to make the trip safe in my pompano 120. TIA

Safety-wise, redundant navigation tools and a VHF radio (or 2), plus dressing for immersion.

Fishing-wise, forget the rod holder for now and learn to troll with it under your leg first.  Get a fishfinder ASAP - $100 for a low end model is fine. 

Find some buddies, take a big net, and thank me later.  Best of luck.   

I agree with all of the above, especially the comments on safety gear. And don't forget a wetsuit or drysuit. I'm always amazed at the number of kayak fisher-people in Santa Cruz who are in street clothes.

I would also add that a gaff and game clip will be essential if you should happen to hook a big halibut. They are not common, but there are some very BIG halibut in Santa Cruz, and kayakers can (and do) catch some of them.

If you want my $0.02 on where to find rockfish in Santa Cruz, PM me and I can give you details (even GPS coordinates, if you'd like).

Keep it simple. The necessary safety gear of course. Other than that just take what you need. You probably don’t need 4 rods and 200lbs of gear. I watch some guys out on overloaded kayaks and it gives me anxiety. Lol.

Welcome!  That Pompano looks a lot like a T120!