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Home > Learn to Fish & Boat > Boating > How to Boat > Nautical Charts
A nautical chart allows you to compare what you are seeing with what you should be seeing on the water and can help you keep your bearings.
Nautical charts are different from maps in that they specifically depict water areas, while maps concentrate on land area, roads, landmarks, etc. Land areas and features on nautical charts are sketchy and are noted only for their interest to the boater. A nautical chart conveys more information specifically designed to assist in safely navigating the area that the chart covers.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is the agency that maintains the nation’s nautical charts and publications for U.S coasts and the Great Lakes. For detailed nautical and marine information visit NOAA Nautical Charts for real-time navigation charts and directions.
Visit our next section to learn more about your boating responsibilities.
The largemouth bass is the most popular freshwater game fish in the U.S. Learn more about how you can identify a largemouth bass, where to catch it and what bait and lures to use.
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