EGMONT KEY Q&A WITH MISTY W�LLS TV & RADIO HOST OF “LET’S TAKE IT OUTSIDE” What do you think would surprise anglers about the area? We have a huge population of tarpon during our spring and summer season. A lot of people think you have to go to Boca Grande to find “trophy tarpon” but tarpon are very plentiful right here. Our fishing guides are some of the best tarpon guides anywhere and we offer many more amenities. What advice do you have for someone who has never saltwater fished on a pier or jetty before? CLAM BAYOU NATURE PRESERVE Visit one of our local bait and tackle shops. They have up-to-date knowledge of what is biting and where the fish are. Talk to them about your tackle setup; be sure what you plan to use will work here. Our fishing community loves to share local knowledge and will give you some “hot spots.” Why is St. Pete-Clearwater considered the grouper capital of the world? More grouper is caught and brought back to the shores of (St. Pete-Clearwater) through both commercial and recreational fishing than anywhere else in the world. Our strict conservation efforts in the Gulf ensure that our grouper population thrives year-round. You haven’t lived until you reel a huge grouper up from the bottom of the Gulf. How do I find a good captain and what can I do with my catch after the trip? St. Pete-Clearwater is loaded with great captains, most of whom have been born and raised here locally. There are a lot of different types of charters and captains. Give them a call to talk about the type of trip you can expect and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good captain is happy to share information, lots of pictures and refer you to someone if they are booked or not a good fit. St. Pete-Clearwater has a lot of hook-and-cook restaurants. Ask your guide or a local for a great place to take your fresh catch. We are always happy to help. VISITSPC .COM 53 SCHOONER CLEARWATER