Why tide matters
Moving water brings food to fish, and fish follow it. Most surf anglers fish the hours either side of high tide, when the water reaches the gullies and sandbanks that are too shallow at low tide.
Many anglers also fish the tide change itself, both high and low, because a change of current often triggers a feeding spell.
Spring and neap tides
Spring tides happen around new and full moon, when the tide rises and falls furthest and the current is strongest. Neap tides happen around the quarter moons, with smaller moves and gentler current.
Spring tides stir up food and often produce better fishing, but they also make heavier wash, so you may need a heavier sinker.
Using a tide table
Use a tide table or app for your area and plan to arrive about two hours before high tide. Tide times shift roughly an hour later each day.
Check the table the day before
Note both high and low tide times
Plan to be set up before the best part of the tide
Moon and light
Many anglers like a moonlit night for kob. Others prefer a dark night. The truth is that no single rule works everywhere, so keep a log of what you catch under which conditions.
General guidance only. Conditions, rules and species differ along the coast, so check with local anglers and the current regulations.