Here is a link that contains some of the local instructors. I didn't see Watersports West listed. http://www.fksa.org/forumdisplay.php?f=44

http://www.watersportswest.com

Your instructor will have answers to all your gear questions.
I wouldn't recommend "just trying it" without a lesson, regardless of your board sport background.

Here is a link to the Tampa/St.Pete section of the forum.

http://www.fksa.org/forumdisplay.php?f=10