I am going to try to fish the surf at clearwater.  I have never tried such a thing before, I am from Kentucky and fish for catfish alot.  I would love to get any knowledge that would help me in my quest.  I was planning on using my 10ft catfish pole with a ambassador 6500 with 30lb test.  Would that be a good start?  I want to catch anything that is biting, I'm not worrying about eating any, cause I know there are a million limits and size that I'm not familiar with.  But I really want the BIG FISH

Fresh shrimp will get you the most bites. But if you catch a smaller fish, and want to have fun, cut his dorsal fin off till he bleeds a bit and chuck him out there. Usually good for a black tip or sand shark.
Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, he'll be divorced for sure.

thanks and that is very true

Most of the Tackle stores around Clearwater carry the Florida Fishing regulations for both salt and freshwater. I have fished from shore at Clearwater long ago and there is lots to catch. But for some great fun try fishing Dunedin Causeway just North of Clearwater. Fish the North side close to the second bridge. I have caught some nice redfish, Snook and loads of Sea Trout there. There is a bait shop just before you get on the causeway (Island Baits if I remember right) they are reasonable and have most everything you need ask the owner whats biting. I still fish down that way when I visit my brother in Tarpon Springs but for now I live on the Suwannee River 125 miles North. Good fishing here as well. Good Luck....Paul
NAFC Life Member Since 1999, US Army MSG Retired 66-88, Vietnam Vet 66-69, Purple Heart (11-9-68) "Petri Heil" (7,450 Posts on Old NAFC BB) Old Town, FL