Ric,
I just read your post and wanted to make a suggestion concerning the 4 wt. I dont know if you tie your own flies or not but you might want to try downsizing your flies to get a little extra casting distance. I like to use a lighter rod on occaision and tie some small (2-3") deciever type flies using craft fur (also known as Fly Fur) and angel hair. The schoolies love them and they cast very well. If you buy your flies just buy the smallest flies you can. The clousers work great but on a 4 wt they are a bear to cast and you really need to reach the fish. Keep at it and once you catch your first striper on the fly you'll probably become hopelessly addicted like the rest of us :-). Good luck.
Joe S.