What's the best tide to surf fish?

Question

on the atlantic coast in florida

Answer 1

I would imagine you would have more fish around during the summer seasons (water temp being warmer) also it would depend on what species you are targeting - in South Africa we fish for sharks - The wind direction is also a huge factor - here we want a south easterly to be blowing quite strong to give the water colour.

Answer 2

its not really the tide but more the wave type since different breaks react differently to tides, but you can surf a fish on anything that resembles a wave basically...

Answer 3

Hi aleta,

I live on the atlantic coast of FL and through years of experience definately go with the high tide. Good pompano fishing is right around the corner. Have your bait in the water two to three hours BEFORE high tide. Don't waste your time on a tide below 1.4. And remember once the water stops moving, the bites will stop. Pompano can also be caught at daybreak, but I have much more success at high tide, whenever that may be.

Use freshly dead shrimp or sand fleas. Do not wast time buyinng frozen shrimp. Go to Walmart and buy fresh shrimp from the seafood department. Use a double rig drop line with a 2 oz wt.

Look for darker water surrounded by clear shallower water. This indicates a hole and a promising spot. If the water is like glass you are wasting your time. You need a little wave action. You should be able to catch fish now until the dog days of summer. When those days come, switch to pier fishing in the mornings for spanish mackerel which is very good broiled in citrus juices, or fishing at night for bluefish which contrary to popular belief is very good fried when cut into small strips.

Email me for any questions.