Tides are one of the most important factors in saltwater fishing success. Understanding how tides affect fish behavior can dramatically improve your catch rates.
Why Tides Matter for Fishing
Tides create water movement that triggers feeding behavior in many saltwater fish species. Moving water stirs up baitfish, carries scent, disorients prey, oxygenates the water, and creates ambush points at structure.
Most experienced anglers agree that fishing during moving water produces better results than fishing during slack tide.
Best Tides for Fishing
Incoming Tide
The incoming tide is often considered the best time to fish, especially in the first two hours of the flood. Fresh oxygenated water moves in from the ocean, baitfish move with the rising water, and predators position themselves to ambush prey.
Outgoing Tide
The outgoing tide can be equally productive, particularly in the last two hours before low tide. It concentrates baitfish in channels, creates strong currents that trigger feeding, and flushes prey out of marshes.
Slack Tide
Slack tide is generally the slowest fishing time due to minimal water movement. However, some species like flounder feed during slack, and sight fishing can be easier in calm water.
Spring Tides vs Neap Tides
Spring tides create the strongest currents and often produce the best fishing with maximum water movement and aggressive feeding. Neap tides bring weaker currents and can be more challenging but are easier to fish with lighter tackle.
For more regional fishing tips and tide reports, check out NYAngler.com.
Conclusion
Understanding tides is essential for saltwater fishing success. Focus on the two hours before and after tide changes, target spring tides around new and full moons, and adjust your location based on the current phase.