Q: Recognizing bad weather and reacting

[Average Fisherman]

Some very basic tips have been given here, and they all ring true. I won't rehash those, but will add a few. Have a NOAA weather radio handy. It will notify you of watches and warnings as soon as they are issued for your area. If you hear thunder, head in. Cloud identification is a great tool in Louisiana, since there are times where we see storms pop up in minutes, and by the time you hear thunder, it may be too late. I personally use an app called radarscope. It costs $9.99, and is worth every penny. It pinpoints your location, and has a very accurate depiction of where the rain/storms are. I find many of the free apps don't have the resloution to do that. For me, the key is not taking chances. If it looks dangerous, head in. All that said, I graduated with a bachelors in atmospheric science, and made my living as a meteorologist for eight years, and I've had times where I've gotten into bad spots. That's why I no longer take chances, regardless of how good the bite is. With how low and flat the landscape is in south Louisiana, being the dude cruising around in the tallest object around, that just happens to be filled with bits of metal, is a very easy way to get your Darwin Award. Be safe!