Why this matters
Fish respond to moving water, forage, temperature, light, pressure and habitat. A high or low tide printed on a table is context, not a catch guarantee.
What to compare
Ask how the predicted water change translates into current at your actual flat, pass, jetty or surf trough. Add wind because it can dominate water levels in the shallow Laguna Madre.
What changes
The strongest current may not occur exactly at the station's high or low, and a productive depth can move as water leaves or returns. Boat and wade access also change.
Make the next decision
Plan a safe entry and exit window first, then fish the habitat revealed by the water. Check current regulations separately; tide never changes a closed season or size limit.
Current source
Use NOAA Tide Predictions for the current operational detail. Check its date, location and scope before allowing a price, time, rule, forecast or availability statement to control the trip.