What is a Thermocline

[Dreadhead47]

I trying to get out of my comfort zone and fish deeper water, points, and basically more off-shore areas. In researching and trying to learn techniques about this I've come across the term 'thermocline' several times. I have an idea of what it is but would like some more information on what it is, and how it will effect fishing.

[MDBowHunter]

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/thermocline.html

[Fish the Mitt]

Thermocline: a steep temperature gradient in a body of water such as a lake, marked by a layer above and below which the water is at different temperatures.  A thermocline is the transition layer between warmer mixed water at the water's surface and cooler deep water below.
 

Google

[scaleface]

The thermolcline becomes visible on the depth finder and is the first thing I look for . Light , Temperature and oxygen all drop significantly there. I dont fish deeper than it . There may be times when bass are deeper , I dont know , but I set it as my limit  . When fishing structure such as points you often here the term the spot on the spot . The thermocline itself can be the spot on the spot .

[Wayne P.]

 

 

[Glenn]

Well what do you know! We have information on that too!

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/thermocline.html

 

[Dreadhead47]

Thank you all for the information! This seems like a very important and helpful factor, And the depth finder screen shots are very helpful for a reference.