Safety Tips and Gear for Fishing

Prioritizing safety in fishing begins with adhering to fundamental boating safety practices. Simple actions like standing to cast a lure, bending to boat a fish, or moving around the boat or body of water can have safety implications. Additionally, factors such as weather conditions, boat traffic, and handling sharp knives and hooks must be considered. Despite these precautions, fishing remains an enjoyable activity. Thus, it’s essential to approach fishing with safety in mind.

To ensure a safe fishing adventure, consider these tips:

1. Always wear a life jacket.
2.File a float plan before heading out.
3.Maintain a tidy boat for safety.
4.Keep hooks and lures stored in tackle boxes.
5.Avoid fishing alone whenever possible.
6.Ensure proper safety equipment is onboard at all times.

Prioritize Safety: Wear a Life Jacket

When it comes to safety on the water, wearing a life jacket is paramount. While bulky and uncomfortable life jackets were once the norm, modern designs prioritize comfort without sacrificing safety. Today, even top anglers and kayak enthusiasts are seen wearing them.

Why? Because accidents can happen unexpectedly, and a life jacket is your best defense in such situations. It’s crucial to invest in a comfortable, properly fitting life jacket that you’ll actually wear.

This advice extends to your entire fishing crew, especially children, as ill-fitting life jackets may not provide adequate protection. Consider newer options like inflatable life jackets or those integrated into clothing for added convenience.

Pro Tip: Keep a whistle handy in your life jacket’s pocket for easy signaling in emergencies. Reflective features can also assist rescuers in locating you quickly.

Create a Float Plan

Just like any boater, anglers should create a float plan—a detailed document outlining your trip. Include your destination, companions, expected return time, and descriptions of your vehicle, trailer, and boat. Specify when authorities should be contacted if you’re overdue. Remember to update those you’ve shared the plan with if your plans change.

A Tidy Boat is a Safe Boat

Safety on board starts with keeping your boat organized. Coil lines neatly to prevent tangles and accidents. Regularly check livewell and baitwell supply lines and drains to prevent water accumulation in the hull. Keep essential gear like landing nets easily accessible to avoid last-minute chaos. Ensure knives are sharp and blades are covered when not in use for added safety.

Expert Angling Advice

To prevent accidents, always store hooks and lures in tackle boxes and keep them securely closed. Familiarize yourself with hook removal techniques and wear safety glasses to shield your eyes from flying hooks or stray casts. Handle fish carefully to avoid injury from their teeth and fins.

Fishing Safety in Numbers

While it’s wise to avoid fishing alone, it’s not always possible. In such cases, it’s crucial to file a float plan and wear a life jacket. Consider using an engine-shut-off lanyard or electronic cutoff switch when boating alone. Ensure your boat is equipped with a boarding ladder for easy re-entry if you fall overboard.

Be Prepared for Anything

Some of the best fishing happens during unpredictable times. Be prepared by carrying essential safety items such as flashlights, water, maps, and communication devices. Additionally, have visual and sound signals required by the Coast Guard on board. If any crew members have medical conditions, ensure their medications and devices are readily available. Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions and wear nonslip shoes. Moderate alcohol consumption, as its effects are amplified on the water.

Respect the Environment

Safety isn’t just about personal well-being—it extends to the environment as well. Avoid transporting live organisms like fish, bait, or weeds from one body of water to another. Always clean and dry your gear thoroughly, and strive to leave each fishing spot better than you found it.