Quick takeaways
- NOAA station 8720576 at St. Augustine is the primary local reference for predicted highs and lows.
- A prediction is water level at the station—not the exact time current changes at every creek, dock, or inlet edge.
- Strong onshore or offshore wind can raise or lower observed water compared with the astronomical prediction.
Which tide station covers St. Augustine?
The NOAA St. Augustine, City Dock station (8720576) is a strong reference for the Matanzas River near downtown. Outgoing Tide uses official NOAA CO-OPS predictions and observations where available. A nearby location can experience a high, low, or current turn later than the published station time because water must travel through the inlet, river, and shallow tributaries.
Inlet, river, and creek timing are different
Near St. Augustine Inlet, current may remain strong even as the tide table approaches high or low water at City Dock. Farther into a marsh creek, the water-level peak may arrive later. Narrow passages can accelerate flow, while broad flats can flood slowly. Learn the offset for a particular launch or shoreline by comparing repeated observations with the same station rather than applying one universal correction.
Why tide range matters
The difference between predicted high and low is the tide range. A larger range generally moves more water and can produce stronger current through constrictions. A smaller range may create slower movement and a longer-feeling transition. Depth, wind, bathymetry, and freshwater runoff still influence what happens at a specific spot.
How weather changes the observed level
Atmospheric pressure and sustained wind can make measured water levels depart from predictions. An onshore wind can pile water toward the coast; an offshore wind can help push it away. Recent rainfall and river flow can affect salinity, clarity, debris, and current in the estuary. Compare the NOAA prediction with the latest observation and official marine forecast before departure.
A practical planning sequence
- Choose the closest representative station and note high/low times and heights.
- Identify the tide stage during the hours you can fish.
- Check wind direction and speed, waves, rain, lightning, visibility, and advisories.
- Allow for local lag and verify access depth at the ramp or creek.
- Confirm current Florida regulations for the water and species you plan to fish.
Primary references
- NOAA CO-OPS: St. Augustine station 8720576
- NOAA tide and current FAQs
- National Weather Service marine forecasts
Safety note: Tide information is for planning, not navigation. Check official warnings, local access, and real conditions. Never cross an inlet or bar solely because a tide table looks favorable.