It’s time to wet a hook. You have waited long enough. Even with all I have going on, I took a couple of hours to break in the boat. I’ll tell you that you do not realize how long the winter is until you take that first trip. We had a busy winter and should be ready for a new phase of business and a grand opening pretty soon. We can’t wait. With the rising price of gas, more of you will be fishing inshore for flounder and red and black drum as well as whiting. Also, more and more of you will fish for Spanish mackerel. Inshore fishing can be just as exciting as fishing out in the Gulf Stream. Just fish lighter and remember the lighter you fish, the more you will catch. For those of you who can still venture to the Gulf Stream, the fishing is heating up quick. There have been some great Wahoo caught recently and bottom fishing is still great with some big black bass in the four-pound range. If you want to go to the Gulf Stream these days, the most economical way and a sure catch to boot is to charter a boat with a six-person split. A professional crew can surely make for a great trip and plenty of fish to bring home. The update on the North End is that it’s running smoothly with not so many tie-ups and few if any complaints. Filling out the form to purchase an annual permit is really simple. My advice is to get your pass at one of the local shops before you head up there. It will save you time and relieve the traffic bottleneck. Next weekend is Easter so I want some pictures of large catches! Let’s get out there and fish. Winter is over! Keep fishin and releasin! Steve and Karen Labanec Seagull Bait and Tackle Carolina Beach, NC 910-458-7135