Reminder: Now Is the Time To Prepare Your Boat

Capt. Mark Howard of SumoTime Fishing Charters is reminding anglers that now is the time to get your fishing vessel fixed or serviced.

"Spring time is not too far off and having  your gear serviced will put you ahead of the spring-time rush of fisherman and boaters wanting to service their gear when the weather turns warm," Howard said.

Howard reported his best action has been with live shrimp on deepwater docks for redfish, speckled trout, sheepshead, black drum and ladyfish.

Capt. Jonnie Walker of Bay Walker Charters out of Sarasota said he has been hitting Sarasota Bay for redfish, trout and sheepshead.

"It's getting warmer every day," Walker said. "The water temperature has been in the high-50s and low-60s."

Walker is anticipating the showing of pompano in the bay.

He said he has not been able to get off the beaches. "It seems like every time it starts to clear up it gets muddied again," he said.