Those are good questions. I would have to say pull the number of boards that you are comfortable with under the conditions at hand. I am comfortable in suggesting to anyone starting out to get at least 4 to 6 boards. More boards can be added later if 6 doesn't keep you busy enough or perhaps your buddy wants to run boards off the bow.
As for jig selection I have personally found that action tail baits work better for me with this technique. Not saying they wont bite a straight tail bait but I stick with action tails with this technique. Lures such as black and blue charlie brewers sliders and John Deere hot grubs are hard to beat. Either of these baits on a 1/16 oz jig head and your ready to fish at .8 - 1mph.
Thanks
Pantastic

