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Speaking of Keystone

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 8:17 am
by JJHACK
I can only be there Saturday with the travel schedule I have. As some of you know I live on the east side of the mtns.

I have never been to Keystone, I have read the concernes about the tides. Am I reading this tide chart properly that I should plan on a 10:30 til 1:30 dive window? I want to do two dives because of traveling that far. However, I always look to those for guidance with better knowledge of these matters than I have. Paranoia has kept me safe and healthy for many years now!

We will dive Edmonds Friday afternoon, then spend the night someplace so we can head up to Keystone on Saturday morning for this afternoon dive.

Suggestions very welcome from you local guys!

Re: Speaking of Keystone

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 9:25 am
by Penopolypants
When looking at specific dive times, it's better to consult current predictions instead of tide charts, and time your dive(s) around slack. There are a number of websites that are pretty good - I usually use this one.

Saturday looks to be a pretty good day to go, but I'll let others who dive Keystone more frequently give you tips on how to get two dives out of it. Whatever you end up doing, avoid the end of the jetty, it's easy to get swept around it and into the ferry lane. You do not want to get swept into the ferry lane.
tide.2843.png

Re: Speaking of Keystone

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 10:34 am
by Sharkb8
I'd recommend getting there as early as you can. Slack before flood followed by mellower flood currents off of admiralty head are the most user friendly at keystone. The slack before ebb usually doesn't last long if at all. Going into an almost 3 knot ebb, you would probably be better off being done by 1 at the latest unless you are with someone familiar with the way the water moves. For diving towards the end of the jetty, just take it slow and feel out the water. Sometimes you can get out around the end during the flood and sometimes you can't. Once you drop down the slope to 40 ft or so where it flattens out you'll start getting an idea. If the water is pulling out I usually don't venture much farther. Don't forget to look up if the vis is good. There's often schools of rockfish hovering above you! Also, there is sometimes a backeddy in the 15-35 ft range that can give you a nice ride back to the beach. Good luck, have fun and stay safe!

Re: Speaking of Keystone

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 8:22 pm
by JJHACK
Making sure I’m in line with this.

As we approach the end of the jetty the current will dictate the decisions and the point to turn around.

Then: Getting into the water early on Saturday is no issue as long as we are away from the end of the jetty before 1:00 (13:00)

Re: Speaking of Keystone

Posted: Fri Nov 16, 2018 9:49 pm
by Sharkb8
JJHACK wrote:Making sure I’m in line with this.

As we approach the end of the jetty the current will dictate the decisions and the point to turn around.

Then: Getting into the water early on Saturday is no issue as long as we are away from the end of the jetty before 1:00 (13:00)
You got it. There will be some water movement before slack with the 1.9 flood, but as long as you take it slow and pay attention you will be just fine. I did forget to mention that there is a large obvious rock in the sand next to the built up stuff at about 35 ft or so with a rope heading east. This is the point where the current often splits, with an eddy shallower and the outbound current slightly deeper. The bottom flattens out just past the rock. That’s where I usually make the call. If it’s feeling ok just take it slow and explore rock by rock until either you start turning the corner to the west or you don’t feel comfortable. There’s plenty to see no matter how deep you go so just take it easy and enjoy yourself!

Also, with the nice weather forecasted and the decent exchange, you’re probably likely going to have other divers there to talk to and get more pointers. Just don’t forget your discover pass (or to pay for the day). The rangers regularly check and are pretty ticket happy!

Re: Speaking of Keystone

Posted: Mon Nov 26, 2018 8:00 am
by JJHACK
Thanks for the advice Dives were great, definately going back to see this location again!

Re: Speaking of Keystone

Posted: Tue Nov 27, 2018 6:24 pm
by Sharkb8
JJHACK wrote:Thanks for the advice Dives were great, definitely going back to see this location again!
Glad to hear it worked out! The more that you are able to dive it while learning how to plan around the currents, the less intimidating it gets! It also gets more and more fun when you start learning the nuances :partydance: