"I'm headed on a dive trip and wanted to know about diving in surge water...."

Dear Sharkie,
I'm headed on a dive trip and wanted to know about diving in surge water. How do I get on a boat and what can you tell me about diving in surge?
Tim

Dear Tim
Surge is the billowing and swelling motion of water caused by waves. It becomes a problem particularly when you're diving near rocks and shallow wrecks or when advancing towards an anchored boat. We sharks love to swim in the surge, Divers have a harder time. Here are some clues on what to do when diving in or around surge.
1. Like the waves that create it, surges come in sets of strong crests and weak breaks.
If you're having a problem approaching the dive boat ladder, retreat a few feet and monitor the conditions until you can recognize and feel the rhythm of the swells
2. Don't consume your energy by attempting to move against the swells. They're stronger than you are! When the surge tries to drive you backward, you should hold onto something such as a current line, anchor line, or rock and ride the wave when it carries you forward. If you're not fortunate enough to have something to grab on to, just steadily fin forward enough to remain in one spot. Backward and forward waves are about the same and will cancel each other out
3. Before making your move, wait for a period of gentler swells If you're trying to enter a swim-through or an opening in a wreck, ride the inflow to the edge of the aperture, hang on during the outflow, and then during the pause and next inflow swim through and beyond the orifice where the surge is most forceful. If you're trying to exit the water and you time it right, you'll be able to ride an inflow swell to the boat ladder or a rock, hang on during the outflow, and get out of the water during the lull before the next inflow surge. Be Cautious and safe It is better to fall short the first time and do it again than it is to be slammed against the side of a boat or rocks. So be careful, ask the Dive Master on the boat and always dive with a buddy,, take care.

Dear Sharkie, I love to snorkel, and I'm not ready to go diving, how can I learn about what types of fish that I'm looking at? Do I need to be a diver

Kathy,
No, you do not need to be a diver to learn about identifying fish. People dive and snorkel for different reasons and one of the main reasons is to watch the fish. Knowing what each one is, is challenging and fun.
Some of my greatest dives have been snorkeling trips in-between dives. Knowing what you are looking at enhances the adventure. Tri-State offers Fish I.D. classes that are educational and fun at the same time. You can stop by and get some information on classes, times, books, and dates. You can also get a water proof slate to take with you and identify the fish that your looking at. The sea is a great body of water and what is just below the surface is awesome. Knowing the creatures that you are looking at will also make you look like a genius to your family and friends. In fact, if your family is also wondering the same thing, have them stop by with you. Then you can take it to the next level by participating in an underwater photography class for snorkeling.