How to Use GPS for Fishing

All images and illustrations by Daniel Ray

Before electronic navigation aids, finding offshore fishing locations was strictly a matter of trial and error, especially once an angler was out of view of the coast. With the advent of affordable GPS units for the consumer market, anglers can run to a particular spot in the ocean time after time. GPS is accurate to within a few feet of the entered coordinates.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

GPS unit Marker buoy
GPS unit
Marker buoy

Step 1

Obtain GPS numbers from a friend or from another source. GPS numbers can also be saved when using your sonar to "scratch" or map the bottom. Mark any locations that show reefs or otherwise look promising.

Step 2

Before leaving the dock, turn the GPS unit on and allow it to acquire the satellites. Enter the GPS numbers into the unit and press the "Go To" button.

Step 3

Follow the course displayed on the GPS unit. Distance and "time to arrival" are displayed, along with current speed.

Step 4

Use a marker buoy to mark the wreck or structure at the GPS coordinates. Using the GPS readouts, slow the boat speed down and throw the buoy overboard when you cross the coordinates. You can now anchor or drift over the fishing spot.

Resources

Ship Wreck Expo

Article Written By Daniel Ray

Daniel Ray has been writing for over 15 years. He has been published in "Florida Sportsman" magazine. He holds an FAA airframe and powerplant license and FCC radiotelephone license, and is also a licensed private pilot. He attended the University of South Florida.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...