I do pretty well using small 3" BG under the float rig I mentioned earlier. I use a large circle hook and a 1oz weight above the steel leader.
I think I'll try the steel leader - our mojo CC are bait shy for anything with a string attached...

I have some Berkley Big Game 30 lb test nylon coated wire - will that work?

I'm going to try to rig up some throw lines with a float to keep the bait off the bottom, as has been discussed.