I definitely echo the sentiments of others here and no way think fishing bait is cheating. Given the amazing equipment (boats, UW cameras, depth sounders w/GPS, baits with impregnated bio-scents, etc.), how can the use of live bait really be any different.
Like Tom, I lived on Cape Cod (many moons ago) and though I fish lures 97% of the time, chubs were a really cool bait on occasion. I even take pride in the 21.5" smallie (released alive) I caught using one on Mashpee-Wakeby!
Tight lines and full live-wells,
Jim H.
