Map layers
A starting point for your sounder.
The letters rank mapped rocky habitat for investigation. They do not grade catches, charter popularity, or how safe a spot is to fish.
First look 75–100
The strongest overall combination of rocky cover, relief, uneven terrain, and nearby habitat in this atlas. Start your search here when conditions and access suit.
Useful alternatives 55–74
Meaningful mapped structure, with a lower combined score in one or more factors. Good options to investigate when another area is crowded or the drift is awkward.
Exploratory Below 55
A lower terrain score, often reflecting less relief, less rocky cover, or a smaller nearby patch. A productive isolated feature can still score C.
Score weights: relief 35 points, rough/bedrock cover 30, terrain unevenness 20, nearby rough habitat area 15. A large rocky area alone cannot earn A. These are chosen research weights; they have not been validated against catches. See the scoring method.
Point, shaded area, or dashed line?
Lettered marker: a place to begin a sounder search, not a confirmed individual boulder. Shaded area: a selected footprint of mapped rocky habitat, not the whole reef. Dashed line: an alignment over structure you could try to cross if your measured drift allows; it is not a safe approach route or a current forecast.
Survey depths are referenced to MLLW. The water depth you see depends on the tide. Confirm bottom and depth on your sounder, and use current charts and protected-area boundaries before setting a drift.
Historical charter AIS
Loading the dated research summary…
AIS records a boat’s reported position and movement. Even repeated slow movement can mean wildlife watching, waiting, or other work. It does not establish fishing or catches. Sources, coverage, and what would qualify.
Marine forecast
Compare wind and waves across independent models. Forecasts load when you ask.