Before You Launch
Wind Speed & Fishing:
Know the Numbers
Wind is the single biggest factor in inshore fishing access and success. Know your threshold before you load the boat.
0 — 30+ mph Conditions Scale
0–7 mph
Calm flat water. Sight fishing, topwater, and shallow pushes all work. Ideal conditions — maximize your time on the water.
8–12 mph
Slight chop. Good for drifting flats and fishing structure. Some sight fishing still possible. Most inshore boats handle this comfortably.
13–18 mph
Choppy. Use heavier jigs. Switch to leeward shorelines for protection. Drift fishing becomes challenging. Know your spots.
19–25 mph
Limited access. Fish sheltered creeks and cuts only. Rough water in open areas. Experienced anglers with larger boats only.
25+ mph
Dangerous conditions. High risk on open water. Fish don’t bite in these conditions anyway. The water will be there tomorrow.
Check wind before you launch at InshoreIQ.com — hourly forecasts built for inshore anglers.