Today’s lake maps are pretty darn accurate, but for as good as they are, they still miss some key contours. Sometimes, these under-mapped areas are the best places to find hidden hotspots that most folks are missing. In this video, Joel Nelson reveals what kind of irregularities you should be looking for to discover key locations that might not be accurately marked on your map.
Introduction
Contour mapping has revolutionized the way we fish. It is an incredible tool that helps us find new spots and pinpoint our presentations to ensure we are fishing in the right areas. However, even with the advancements in contour mapping, there are still spots that get missed. In this article, I will share my experience with finding hidden spots that are not on the contour maps and how you can use this knowledge to catch more fish.
The Limitations of Contour Mapping
While contour mapping is a valuable tool, it has its limitations. When lakes are surveyed using depth sounders, the data collected may not capture every spot accurately. Often, the surveyors cast nets in terms of sonar, driving back and forth to scan the bottom. However, some spots may not be specifically surveyed, or they may only capture the edge of the spot.
Identifying Hidden Spots
As an angler, it is essential to understand that small irregularities in the contours can be clues to hidden spots. These irregularities may appear as slight jogs or deviations in the contour lines. One such spot that I have discovered is a small flat on the edge of a basic shoreline break. At first glance, it may seem insignificant, but upon closer inspection of the contours, I noticed that it didn’t look like the rest of the shoreline contours.
Exploring the Hidden Spot
Intrigued by this irregularity, I decided to investigate further. I drove over the spot and checked my depth settings. To my surprise, I found that the bottom was much harder than the surrounding areas. This discovery piqued my curiosity even more, and I decided to turn on the side scan feature on my sonar unit.
Using Side Scan Sonar
Side scan sonar has been a game-changer in recent years. It allows me to get a better understanding of the spot by providing detailed images of the underwater terrain. With the side scan sonar, I was able to confirm the presence of three small rock piles, each no bigger than the size of my boat. These rock piles were separate but located right next to each other on this small spot.
The Importance of Studying Mapping and Contours
This experience taught me the importance of studying mapping and contours. By paying attention to slight irregularities and deviations in the contour lines, I was able to identify hidden spots that the contour maps had missed. These spots can often be off the beaten path, away from areas that other anglers frequent. By exploring these hidden spots, you can increase your chances of finding fish in areas that others haven’t discovered yet.
Conclusion
Contour mapping is an invaluable tool for anglers, but it does have its limitations. It’s crucial to understand that not every spot will be accurately captured on the contour maps. By studying the mapping and paying attention to slight irregularities in the contours, you can uncover hidden spots that are often overlooked. Utilizing tools like side scan sonar can further enhance your understanding of these spots and help you catch more fish. So, the next time you’re out on the water, take the time to study your mapping, look for slight irregularities, and explore those hidden spots that the contour maps may have missed. You never know what treasures you might find beneath the surface.
