What wind direction is most favorable for calm seas near shore?
232 Well Craft Coastal
Not an expert but I’d say the closer to directly off shore the better (from the NW). I think that’s pretty unusual especially in the summer.
Dear Chipster…Direction is not as important as wind speed. Generally though a South wind 5 to 10 knots is a good wind to fish on as far as calm seas go. These occur during mid summer when we experience the Bermuda High which is a dominant high pressure seasonal occurrence. You get 90 degree temperatures with it, and you fry your brain and blind your eyes at the same time. Currents and tides contribute to ocean swells, and you can get some serious rollers even on a calm day, just not the close interval high chop that comes with a stiff breeze. You add 90 degree + heat, blinding glare off the calm water, and rock and roll tidal flow and I’ve seen some green to the gills fishermen blowing hash within site of the beach. Good time to experience severe dehydration too…by the time you get the headache from it you’re toast! One extra tip…whatever the wind speed is forecast (ie 10 to 15 SW)add the two numbers together, and that’s what you’ll be getting in the afternoon vs. the morning…not scientific…just experience.
Sol Mate
Mako 20B
225 Optimax
Thank you both for the information. I trailer down from Orangeburg and am trying to learn what to expect when I get there which in turn determines if I am gonna fish the Jetties or venture out to the closer man made reefs.
232 Well Craft Coastal