Advice

[TimKan7719]

Ok, I just want to Share some Info for some people out there. 2 places That I use when Scouting out fishing areas, one is here
http://ocsdata.ncd.noaa.gov/OnLineViewer/

and the Other is

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&tab=wl

with the map I keep it in satellite and read the surf, wave, breakes, and such from the sky.


I use these charts looking for areas, of dropoffs close to shore areas, breaks in sandbars, points, holes, channels, ect ect ect. Using them with other knowledge of fishing in general, like fish holding to structure; Drop offs, rock piles, pipe lines, ect ect ect. Or places where bait fish would congragate, places they feel safe.

I hope those 2 tid bits of info will help you all out alot, I know I use them a ton. As far as bait goes, might have to ask a local expert for that or gain you some fisrt hand knowledge. But Prior planning before you head out to your area is always a good thing.
Tight Lines,
Tim

[Singletjeff]

I wouldn't trust the satellite views.....They are outdated....Sandbars move and change constantly. I am looking at a map of about 2 miles from my parent's house....They have been working on an addition to an elem school for almost a year now, not to mention a structure they started building probably close to 2 years ago. Neither of these constructions show up on the map. Its ok to use it to learn what the cuts, bars, trough etc looks like from the sky, but as far as using it to actually find one...I wouldn't trust it.

[TimKan7719]

Yes there is nothing better then first hand knowledge, but if heading to a place you never fish its always better to have a starting point, exp when you arive in the dark Like I normally do.

[Singletjeff]

I'll agree with that....just keep in mind, that it will probably not be anywhere close to the same structure when you arrive.

[surfchunker]

jetty's, wrecks and such will be fine to use with those maps but like others said just regular surf cuts and bars can change daily ..... no way will they be there after years ... if we could get real time live views now that would rock

[saltandsand]

Good for general information and can be done beforehand but as others have said, it's not reliable do to age of the data and other factors. But if you've got the time and want to look around, by all means have fun!

[Danman]

:fishing:Thanks for your input...even if the maps are 2yrs old it gives us novice people a chance at learning alittle more.

[SALTSHAKER]

Thanks for taking the time to pass the info on. I put the charts in my favorites for later use.... again, thanks... salt