I am learning to fish tidal waters (sloughs, cuts, etc.) and had some questions.  My understanding is that bass tend to face into the current.  How then should I position my boat?  Should I move with the current or against it?  I figured that there would be 3 possible scenarios:

1.  Boat moving with the current, cast behind the fish

2.  Boat moving with the current, cast in front of the fish

3.  Boat moving against the current cast in front of the fish

These scenarios assume that the bass are facing into the current.  Could someone with tidal fishing experience offer some suggestions?

Considerations when tidal fishing

1. high tide (incoming)

2. low (out going)

3. strength of the tide

During a strong tide it will be harder for bait to swim against it so fish with the current but during a weak tide it doesn't matter.

During either high or low tides I'll anchor near the mouth of sloughs or cuts and target these areas first.

To add to Catt's information, which is usually on target, may I suggest you consider purchasing Woo Daves video or DVD, "River Fishing Techniques: Tidal Rivers."

Woo gives you a lot of infomration about fishing tidal rivers as he shares his strategies, techniques, tides and currents and his favorite baits with you.

Bass Pro Shops carry his productions, or you can call or write to:

Bass Pro Shops

1935 South Campbell

Springfield, MO 65898-0001

800.227.7776

I have watched his video many times and keep learning from it. Plus the fact that the production is filmed on rivers I fish and I have fished the same places as Woo.  

And read what the guys have to say on this forum.  You can't go wrong taking their advice.