Technology has changed so many things in our lives, including my hobby, fishing. In preparation for a fishing trip, I used to have to get information from the newspaper, local news channels or close fishing friends. Thanks to our smart phones this information is available to us anytime and anywhere.

Now, before planning a trip, I spend a few minutes checking tides, weather, wind and fish counts. Prior to smart phones, you could count on information being at least a couple days old. Now, I can check these items in real time! This gives me a huge advantage today vs planning trips years ago.

These are some of my favorite apps:

*Navionics – This app has a ton of information! I use it for tides and as a backup navigation on foggy days.

*Wind Alert – Allows me to quickly check the current wind forecast.

*Windy – Another wind forecast app, but with more detailed information.

*or.water.usgs.gov – Here I can check the Columbia/Willamette river turbidity/clarity.

*Forecast.weather.gov – Current and forecasted weather from a Government source.

*NOAA Weather Radar – My Favorite! Realtime data for your location. Is rain or snow coming your way? This app will tell you.

What are some apps or websites you use when planning outdoor activities and events? Please share!