Plans for every tide

Cove Strategies

Ten waves, three defenders and one nest. These notes collect what works in the channel, phase by phase and blessing by blessing.

Through the waves

Early schools are small and all pike. Two herons on the first bends usually hold them, so keep spare shells for later.

Catfish join the line and take far more damage to stop. Add a net before the strongest heron so the slow swimmers stay in range longer.

Schools grow long and fast. Otters near tight corners hit several fish with each splash; upgrade them before buying new spots.

The last wave brings two extra catfish. Spend every shell before you call it, and make sure the tiles nearest the nest are covered.

The sun mosaic changes your opening. Here is how to make the most of each tile.

Spend the extra shells at once on a second heron to clear the first waves without losing a heart.

Extra hearts buy room for risk: save shells early and invest in upgrades for the late waves.

Cheaper herons reward a heron-heavy line. Place one on every early bend.

Double points make every stop count. Play safe and keep hearts, since each remaining heart is doubled too.

Your score starts high, so focus on survival rather than chasing extra stops.

A slower tide lets single defenders do more. Spread out a little wider than usual.

The free otter already guards the second tile. Build a net beside it for a strong early pair.

Long rests give time to think between waves. Use them to plan upgrades instead of rushing.

Strategy is half the fun, but there is no prize at the end. Take breaks and enjoy the view of the cove.