OK, John, since we are all in the learning mode, here is some additional information that is quite useful when it comes to tidal flow and planning your trips. This is something I teach at any of the fishing seminars I have given over the years.
Are you familiar with the annual publication known as the Eldridge Tide and Piot Book? This book has a wealth of information relating to many aspects of good navigation practices. Specifically relating to tides, over the years I find it's predictions as to the actual times a tide will change is the most accurate resource available, better than most online or other published data in several magazines.
In addition, when you study the data presented you will find many interesting points. For example, almost all fishermen know there are 2 flood and 2 ebb cycles each day. However, did you know that each flood and ebb cycle do not flow at the same velocity? That is regardless of the phase of the moon. The Eldridge tables will show you the speed of flow not only during the maximum velocity but also has charts showing the approximate speed at various intervals within a tide cycle.
Besides a huge amount of data regarding tides, this book also has reference tables for all the required lighting schemes of vessels, descriptions of all aids to navigation, weather terminology, etc. In fact, this book is so important that the law requires a copy to be present on all federally documented vessels.
You can buy a copy online, at West Marine, and many other suppliers to the marine industry. A new edition comes out each January for the year and I promise you it will be the best $20 investment you can make in helping you decide where to fish and when, especially from a tide perspective.
I hope you enjoyed today's lesson!
PS: I hope you do well on the Tog this weekend. I am running at least the next 5 out of the next 7 days, weather permitting. You know I have already consulted my copy of Eldrige to plan my trips. Hope my energy holds out!!
