On the docks at Ponce Inlet, the chance to hook a red snapper lures tourists to the Sea Spirit, a deep-sea party boat. The fish is a key part of Florida’s $4.4 billion recreational-fishing industry.

We have had to work some pretty rough weather but it’s worth it with the big catches of fat spring snapper that have been coming in. The catches were mostly out deep and using the most modern methods.

Dick Emmons, Senior Connecticut Aquatic Resources Education (CARE) Instructor and well known local fishing enthusiast sent me his "IT'S SNAPPER TIME" instruction sheet. The information he provides is ...