What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Clearwater, Florida for the first time?

Hire a guide who knows the area. Read comments from guests. A guide obviously cannot guarantee catching fish but if he knows the area, he knows where the productive areas are. We knew nothing about Clearwater or fishing in February. Feedback from customers is your best source in choosing a guide.

If you're going in the warmer days of the year, like late June, book off-shore trips. The in-shore waters are just a bit too warm, and this boats draft isn't suitable for fishing among the mangroves for fish like snook and the like.

John was an excellent guide and got us to where the fish were and we had several bites. With the size restrictions on fish we only had a few keepers; then again, that is just part of fishing. If we go to Clearwater area again we will definitely contact John.

Go fishing with CPT Mike. Very knowledgeable about his job. Easy to talk to. My brother and I had a blast catching a lot of fish in a short amount of time.

To arrive early and pay for parking before you go out. We did not realise this was a requirement. There is one small sign stating you have to pay for parking. Not clearly visible. We ended up with a parking violation.

The area is absolutely beautiful but fishing for the big guys is slower when the water is cold.

Book a trip with Coastal Chaos and you’ll have fun. It was very hot and that hampered the bite a bit, but that is nothing anyone can control.

Make sure you are clear with the captain what you are looking for and that you get what you pay for.

Definitely go with High Tide crew, they will show you everything you need to know as far as where the fish are and what to expect. Very knowledgeable.

You have to put back what you catch this year state regulations. Other than that go have fun and if you fish the bay it is pretty shallow about 3 ft but a good time.

Research your trip and your Captain to make sure you are paying for what you are expecting!

Book a half day or full day trip as that will give you more time to fish in the deep water.