Boaters need to consider many factors, including wind, current, and water depths. They also need to be knowledgeable about the tides.
Anyone who wants to own a boat in a coastal region should have a strong understanding of the tidal changes. They can effect how you boat, how you fish, and where you can go, so make sure you are informed on this important topic.
Let’s take a quick look at the tides and see what you should know.
Tides are Caused by the Moon and the Sun
Everyone knows that the moon has a strong effect on the tidal conditions, but did you know that the sun also has a pull on the ocean’s waters? The sun actually pulls pretty hard on the tides, although the moon’s effect is over twice the force, due to its proximity to earth.
Spring Tides are More Extreme
There are a two terms that every saltwater boater should know: spring tides and neap tides. We’ll start with spring tides, which have nothing to do with the spring season. When the moon and the sun are pulling together, we get what’s known as a spring tide. Spring tides can occur any time of the year, and they are when you will see the highest highs and the lowest lows. Spring tides occur during full moons and new moons, when the two celestial bodies are pulling in parallel directions.
Neap Tides Mean Lower Tides
About a week after spring tide, you will see neap tides, which bring a much smaller change in the tidal levels. Neap tides occur around quarter moon, when the sun is pulling at a perpendicular direction than the moon.
Understand the Tidal Currents
Now that you understand spring and neap tides, you should know about tidal currents. There are two types of currents that result from the tidal changes: flooding and ebbing. Flooding occurs when the tide is rising, and ebbing currents occur when the tide is falling. You can consult tide and current tables to get an idea of what to expect.
Tides Have a Major Effect on Fishing
If you are fishing in intertidal areas like the Florida Keys or the Carolina coast, you need to be well aware of how the tides will affect your fishing. When the tide is low, fish are usually holed up in structural areas like reefs and wrecks. These locations provide shelter and food, and it’s often the most common place to find quality fish during the low tide.
During high tide, however, you’ll want to consider fishing in areas that were previously dry. Sandy beaches and flats that are now covered in water will be buffet tables for many popular game fish, including redfish and permit.
The Perfect Boat for High or Low Tide
Give yourself the advantage of a reliable, luxurious boat by owning a Scout. These boats are built to a higher standard, with superior materials and made with top-quality designs. You can drive the boat of your dreams, and Scout would love to help make it happen.
