Tidal coefficient

[Alain Dufou]

I am curious, when the tidal coefficients are high, 100+. Are the currents and waves generally rough, despite the winds being light.

 

[Fish Bait]

The currents are stronger because of the large volume of water moving, particularly in channels, straits and other geographicaly restricted areas. It shouldn't have much impact on waves unless tidal turbulance results.

 

[Macdeep]

It depends on the location, but generally yes, especially if the wind is blowing opposite to the tide.

Example - Nahwitti bar with a 14-15ft swing on the ebb, combined with a normal light 10-15 knot afternoon NW wind and/or an unfavourable swell direction can generate significant waves worth avoiding...

I'd be on the lookout for any places that have channel constrictions combined with underwater reefs/bars, or where two or more channels come together, and really pay attention if there's exposure to wind.

But there are also plenty of places where you'd think there would be heavy chop during big tide swings, and it ends up being flat... local knowledge and time on the water are indispensable.

 

[Capt_Ed]

It depends on the location, but generally yes, especially if the wind is blowing opposite to the tide.

I believe what you meant to say was
"Especially if the wind is blowing opposite to the current ". It's been my experience that tide goes up and down and as yet I have not seen the wind blow up or down, just saying.