by Captain Jim Stoner
One of the most important factors to fishing success in the Ten Thousand Islands is the tide. The tide plays a critical role in when and where fish feed. Under certain conditions, it can also determine if you make it home.
The tide in our area is what is known as semi-diurnal, which basically means that on most days we have two tides. This is good for fishing because you have the opportunity to fish more of the tide and can schedule your trip around it.
Let’s talk about the tide as it relates to navigation. You should try to depart on a low rising tide if you are new to the area. You will be able to observe the numerous oyster bar and mud flats. The deeper channels will be more apparent and you will be able to take note of these features; not only to avoid them but to look for potential fishing spots. On your return trip you will have high water and should be able to navigate home with little trouble - having noted the shallow areas on the low tide.
Now let’s talk about the tide as it relates to fishing. Most fish feed on a moving tide. This can be incoming and outgoing depending on the spot. The fish use the tide flow as a way of traveling to and from feeding areas and to setup on a spot to ambush prey. Snook for example seem to like current and will setup on a point with a back eddy to feed. They will also lay in wait at the out flow of a creek mouth to ambush anything that passes by on the falling tide.
When I leave the dock, I always have a good idea of the day’s tides. I plan my fishing day around the tides so that I will maximize the potential for fish. I consider the tides to be one of the most important factors to catching fish in this region. Before you begin your trip pick up a copy of the local tide chart and study the tides for the day. You will not only catch more fish, you will also make it home safely.
Everglades Pro Fishing Charters
Captain Jim Stoner
Captain Doug Stoner
954-444-9995
http://www.evergladespro.com/
snook4341@yahoo.com
