What's below the waterline?

• Big underwater rocks don't move! Submerged ledges formed ages ago during the ice age don't either unless of course, man decides that they ought to. Water does move, however, both as tides shift and wind creates wave action. Gravitational pull from the moon affects the height of those tidal waters and gives one a glimpse of what normally would be concealed.
• There is little doubt that recent, extreme tidal ranges have caught the attention of inhabitants along the shoreline. Many experienced flooding and some had their belongings float away or moved to another location. At first glance, things seemed a bit odd with waterfowl paddling in normally dry areas, tidewater birds plucking small fish from immersed parking lots, and rivers unusually widened.
• The higher the water rose, the more evident became the concerns of residents. As the levels peaked, anxieties intensified and eventually reduced when the waters gradually receded. It was the exceptionally low water, not the high, that fishermen ought to have examined. New cuts leading from deepened troughs were carved, serving as a new way for baitfish to exit during dropping tides. Holes were made larger while others were either filled or partially filled. Sand and mud were deposited along points and dropoffs.
• All of these changes should be taken into account when fishing spots of interest. A review of the coastline could expose new holding areas for baitfish as well as target gamefish species. A quick look at a local chart can give an angler a head start in identifying previously unknown locations. Certainly, checking out a favorite secret fishing hole should be considered whenever the opportunity arises. Fishing in the blind reduces success rates especially when obscure changes occur to the environment.
• Ever lose a lure to a submerged tree limb after it was washed downstream to a spot you've probably cast to at least hundred times before? Or unexpectedly hook into a fish either before reaching or after passing a point where they have been caught before? Surprises are part of the sport but can be minimized by uncovering seasonal changes and exposing new fish avenues. Take advantage of really low tides by examining bottom structure to find potentially good fishing areas—it will give you an insight on how to fish them more effectively.
• An image such as the one above can only serve to help an angler place his/her bait in a more productive location. Humps, points of land that contribute to the making of a rip or rocks hidden underwater or slightly awash are strong indications as to where to find fish. Stripers, bluefish, and fluke, for example, use these barriers that Mother Nature create to ambush their prey. They are great hiding places for predators and a source of confusion to baitfish. They can also be a hazard to an angler, so caution is mandatory when fishing this type of structure. The next time there's an extreme low tide, get out and do some exploring. It will pay off! [org pub Shore Publishing, by Captain Morgan Outfitters at 21 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT]