Public vs. Private Fishing Waypoints—What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever scoured the internet for fishing waypoints, you know there’s no shortage of coordinates out there—some free, some for sale, and all promising to help you find more fish. But here’s the catch: not all waypoints are created equal. For recreational fishermen from North Carolina to South Florida, understanding the difference between public vs. private fishing waypoints can mean the difference between a slow day and the catch of a lifetime.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what sets public and private waypoints apart, why it matters for your time on the water, and how decades of commercial fishing experience can give you an edge most anglers only dream of. Whether you’re new to offshore fishing or a seasoned pro looking to up your game, you’ll walk away knowing how to choose the right waypoints for your next adventure.
What Are Fishing Waypoints?
For anyone new to the game—or even seasoned anglers looking to sharpen their edge—let’s start with the basics. Fishing waypoints are specific GPS coordinates that mark productive fishing spots, reefs, ledges, or underwater structures. Think of them as digital breadcrumbs left behind by those who’ve spent years learning where the fish really bite.
Waypoints take the guesswork out of fishing trips. Instead of relying on luck or vague advice, you can head straight to proven locations, saving you hours (and gallons of gas) searching for active fish. Whether you’re chasing snapper off the Carolina coast or hunting grouper down in Florida, having the right waypoints can turn an average day into a legendary one.
What Are Public Fishing Waypoints?
Public fishing waypoints are coordinates that are widely available to anyone—usually shared by government agencies, posted on fishing forums, or collected from crowd-sourced lists. They’re easy to find and don’t cost a thing, which makes them appealing for many anglers just starting out.
Pros of Public Waypoints:
- Free and easy to access
- Plenty of options for every region
- Great for learning the basics or exploring new waters
Cons of Public Waypoints:
- Often overfished and crowded
- Frequently outdated or inaccurate
- Less productive due to heavy fishing pressure
If you’ve ever shown up at a “hot spot” only to find a half-dozen boats already there, you’ve experienced the downside of public waypoints firsthand.
What Are Private Fishing Waypoints?
Private fishing waypoints, on the other hand, are coordinates that aren’t shared with the general public. These are typically gathered through years of personal experience, commercial fishing operations, or closely guarded logbooks. They represent the real “secret sauce” of successful anglers.
Pros of Private Waypoints:
- Far less fishing pressure—often just you and the fish
- More productive and reliable spots
- Frequently updated and maintained
- Tied to real catches and proven results
Cons of Private Waypoints:
- Typically cost money to access
- Limited availability
At Fishin’ Not Lookin’, every waypoint we offer is the result of over 30 years of commercial fishing along the East Coast. Captain Gilbert Mathis, who ran five commercial boats and a seafood market, meticulously recorded every trip, catch, reef, and ledge in handwritten notebooks. These private notes have evolved into the GPS waypoints we now share exclusively with our customers.
Why Private Waypoints Make the Difference
The real value of private waypoints isn’t just about exclusivity—it’s about results. Spots that have consistently produced fish for decades are worth their weight in gold, especially when you’re trying to maximize your time on the water. With private waypoints, you’re not just following the crowd; you’re tapping into a legacy of fishing knowledge that’s been proven year after year.
Many of our customers report catching more fish, more consistently, and spending less time searching. That’s because private waypoints are tied to real stories, real catches, and real success—not just random points pulled from the internet.
Common Myths & Misconceptions
“Aren’t all waypoints the same?”
Not at all. Public waypoints are often outdated or hammered by heavy fishing pressure, while private waypoints are carefully curated and kept up-to-date by experienced fishermen.
“Can’t I just find good spots online for free?”
You can find plenty of public spots—but so can everyone else. The result? Crowded waters and fewer fish.
“Do private waypoints really work?”
Absolutely. Our private waypoints are based on Captain Mathis’s decades of real-world success, and we hear from customers all the time about their improved results.
How to Choose the Right Waypoints for Your Needs
When deciding between public and private waypoints, consider your fishing goals. Are you just looking for a fun day on the water, or are you hoping to fill the cooler and create some real memories? Private waypoints offer a shortcut to success, saving you time, money, and frustration—especially if you’re fishing unfamiliar waters or want to maximize every trip.
Why Fishin’ Not Lookin’s Waypoints Are Different
Here’s what sets us apart:
- 30+ years of commercial fishing experience
- Every waypoint is tied to a real catch or fishing story from Captain Mathis’s legendary logbooks
- Updated, proven, and exclusive—never just copied from public lists
- Instant download straight to your device, so you can get on the water fast
We’re not just selling numbers—we’re sharing a legacy of fishing success with anglers who want the real deal.
Ready to see the difference for yourself?
Check out our private collection of private, proven fishing waypoints for the East Coast. Got questions? Drop them in the comments or send us a message—we love helping fellow anglers get more out of every trip.
Closing Thoughts
Not all waypoints are created equal. If you want to spend less time searching and more time catching, private waypoints from a trusted source make all the difference. Here’s to tighter lines, bigger catches, and legendary days on the water—thanks for trusting Fishin’ Not Lookin'.
