Latest Fort McRee boating call — favorable right now, but make it an early/short run because storms are the concern.

As of 11:35 AM CDT Saturday, August 15, the official Pensacola Bay forecast calls for northwest winds around 5 knots, turning southwest later today, with waves 1 foot or less and only a light chop. Tonight: west winds 5–10 knots, still 1 foot or less. That makes the bay side around Fort McRee a solid choice for most boats. NWS Pensacola Bay marine zone forecast

What changes the plan: there is a slight chance of showers/storms early this afternoon and a better chance late. Winds and seas can rise sharply near a thunderstorm, so don’t linger at the pass or on the exposed Gulf side if cells begin building. The area is also under a Heat Advisory, with heat-index values around 108–112°F possible.

A member at Fort McRee reported at about 11:33 AM that the water had cleared up, the bay was calm, and the Gulf looked beautiful. That’s a helpful firsthand snapshot, though it isn’t an official observation.

Best move: Run now, stay bay-side or keep a conservative exit plan, and be back toward shelter before the late-afternoon storm window. Sunday looks similarly calm but retains an afternoon thunderstorm chance.

👉 Are you planning to anchor on the bay side, cross Pensacola Pass, or run offshore?