With spring just around the corner, it won't be long before there will be snook in the surf along Florida's West Coast from Anna Maria Island to Marco Island.

This game is totally sight-fishing. It's a great fly-rod fishery. Some years, of course, are better than others. Last year wasn't very good, so here's hoping.

I get to the beach about 7:30 a.m. and fish until about noon or 1 p.m. The high the sun is in the sky, the larger your window of sight.

In the afternoon, the sea breeze will kick up, making it tough to see. Plus, the sun is now in your eyes.

For this fishing, I use 6-weight fly rod, sinktip line, 8-pound leader and 20-pound fluoro shock.

Fly of choice is the D.T. Special (Variation).

Beach snook: