TLDR;
In this episode of the Fishing for a Reason podcast, Scott and Jamie share their top three apps for fishing, emphasizing how technology can enhance efficiency and success on the water. They discuss DeepZoom, Navionics, Windhub, SailFlow, and the Fish Washington app, along with the importance of community networks. They also share tips for couples on trip planning and communication to ensure a better fishing experience.
- Top apps for fishing: DeepZoom, Navionics, Windhub, SailFlow, Fish Washington app
- Importance of community networks for fishing
- Tips for couples on trip planning and communication
Intro & Salmon Academy mention [0:00]
Scott and Jamie introduce the episode, mentioning their ongoing work on the Salmon Academy, an online course for salmon fishing. They explain that the topic of the day is the top three apps they consistently use for fishing, which was inspired by their course creation process. In addition to app recommendations, they promise to share tips for couples planning fishing trips.
Why fishing apps matter [1:46]
Apps are important because they streamline the fishing process by consolidating necessary information such as tide guides and weather patterns into one accessible location on your phone. This efficiency is key, as fishing can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. Using technology and AI can significantly improve the ability to locate fish more quickly, making apps an essential tool for both novice and experienced anglers.
Scott’s #1: DeepZoom [3:07]
Scott's number one tool is Deep Zoom, a website that provides a comprehensive snapshot of water conditions in a specific area. It allows users to check current tides, plan routes, and view weather information. Scott likes using Deep Zoom to assess water conditions before planning a fishing trip, using features like tide selection, route building, and weather forecasts.
Jamie’s #1: Navionics [6:45]
Jamie's top app is Navionics, which she values for its detailed chart information, especially useful for lingcod fishing. Navionics allows her to zoom in on her phone to identify pinnacles and ideal spots based on current conditions, often without needing internet service. She uses it to check tides and currents in real-time, adapting to changing conditions and finding productive spots quickly.
DeepZoom vs. Navionics [9:42]
Deep Zoom requires internet access to function, while Navionics can be used offline if the maps are downloaded beforehand. Both apps are useful, but they sometimes provide different current information for the same locations.
Wind apps overview [9:54]
Checking wind conditions is crucial for a successful day on the water, making wind apps essential. Different apps may provide conflicting information, so it's important to cross-reference and understand the models they use.
Scott’s #2: Wind Hub [10:03]
Scott's second favorite app is Windhub, which uses data from Windy. Windhub displays wind information from various stations, allowing users to check wind speed, gusts, temperature, precipitation, cloud cover, pressure, and sea temperature. The app allows users to select different wind models, each calculating forecasts differently based on node spacing. Scott typically defaults to the GFS 27 model.
Jamie’s #2: SailFlow [12:09]
Jamie prefers SailFlow for its visual representation of wind direction and intensity through color-coded patterns. She has been using the free version of SailFlow for years and relies on its quick, easy-to-understand interface to assess wind conditions. By looking at the colors on the app, she can quickly determine if the wind is within her comfort threshold for fishing.
Comparing wind models [13:51]
The choice of wind model depends on personal preference and what works best for the individual. Jamie relies on SailFlow’s default model due to her familiarity with its predictions, while Scott uses Windhub and often checks multiple models.
Scott’s #3: Fish Washington App [14:12]
Scott's third choice is the Fish Washington app by WDFW (Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife). Despite its initial struggles and occasional update issues, Scott finds it useful for identifying fishing area boundaries, especially in borderline locations. The app is improving with real-time updates and provides information on regulations, fish identification, and pamphlet downloads.
Jamie’s #3: Fishing network (AU Gold, PSA) [15:52]
Jamie emphasizes the importance of tapping into a fishing network to gather information about recent fishing activity, including both successes and failures. She plugs the Anglers Unlimited Gold membership app, which provides access to an online community where members share trip reports and ask questions. She also recommends joining the free Anglers Unlimited Facebook group or attending in-person meetings with Puget Sound Anglers to build a network of fishing contacts.
Join a fishing community [17:00]
Joining a fishing community, whether online or in person, is valuable for gaining insights and building relationships with other anglers. These networks provide opportunities to learn from others' experiences and stay informed about current fishing conditions.
How we split trip planning [18:00]
Scott and Jamie discuss how they divide trip planning duties. Jamie typically checks the weather to support Scott's assessment, ensuring they account for the person with the lower weather threshold. They recommend splitting tasks such as checking tides and weather, then coming together to discuss the findings and make a plan.
Know your weather threshold [19:00]
Couples should openly discuss their weather thresholds to avoid disagreements and ensure a more enjoyable fishing experience. Acknowledging individual comfort levels and preferences is crucial for making informed decisions about when and where to fish.
Tips for fishing couples [20:12]
Clear communication about weather thresholds and splitting duties, both in planning and on the boat, are key for couples to have a successful fishing trip. Reviewing what works and what doesn't can improve future outings.
Outro & listener requests [20:42]
Scott and Jamie conclude by asking listeners to share their preferred apps and suggest topics for future episodes. They encourage feedback on product reviews, gear, and app discussions. They thank their audience and promise to return with another episode next Tuesday.