Jetties and rocks that protrude into the ocean are there to protect a dredged inlet channel from being filled in by tidal currents. They also provide a great fishing spot for anglers with a boat. Anchoring around these huge boulders can be dangerous.
Great Fishing – Great Danger
Some of the best fishing around an inlet can be found on and around a set of jetties. Some of the most dangerous areas to fish are jetties with lots of boat traffic and a strong current.
The Anchor
- If you plan to anchor on or around a jetty, you will need a jetty anchor. Standard anchors will anchor you just fine; the jetty anchor is the only one you can reliably expect to retrieve.
- Standard anchors will hang in the rocks, and more often than not cannot be broken free using normal tactics. Specialized jetty anchors, made from a lead pipe with rebar tangs, will bend and free themselves.
- Available at tackle and bait shops that cater to jetty anglers, they are one of the best investments a jetty fisherman can make.
Current Direction
- Tides move in and out of the inlets, often with great speed. The currents they produce are stronger than most people realize, able to move and turn even the biggest boats.
- When you plan to anchor, pay attention to the direction of the current. It will push your boat into or away from the rocks.
- Take a long look at the current and plan your anchor drop to allow the boat to move away from the rocks
Wind Direction
- Wind direction and speed will cause your boat to swing in the current.
- Alter your anchor drop so that the wind will not push you back into the rocks.
- Always watch for a change in wind speed or direction, and be prepared to react quickly as the boat moves.
Tide Changes
- Tide changes can be the doom of a boat anchored alongside a jetty.
- Current direction and speed will change and place the boat in jeopardy of being swung into the rocks.
- Be prepared to pull anchor and reposition you boat at the change of the tide.
Safety First
- Anglers often want to anchor as close to the rocks as possible.
- Fishing is often better closer to the rocks.
- Play it safe by anchoring in a position that leaves you an out.
- Passing boats can cause big wakes that can wash you into the rocks.
- PAY ATTENTION – simply keeping your wits about you and watching the area as you fish can go a long way to keeping you out of a dangerous situation.
