All to often, recreational fishermen end up in danger by taking unnecessary risks. Anyone, no matter how fit or experienced they are, can find themselves in difficulty around the water. Water conditions are highly changeable and all bodies of water – lakes, rivers and the sea (particularly around rocks) can become dangerously quickly.
There are some simple things you can do to make your fishing trip as safe and enjoyable as possible.
- Learn to swim to survive – if you fall in, you have a higher chance of surviving
- Check the marine weather forecast including the swell, tide and wind strength and direction
- Get to know the area you will be fishing, listen to advice and obey all warning signs
- Leave detailed information – tell someone responsible where you are going and when you are due to return.
- Never fish alone, make sure you always take a buddy with you
- Take and wear a lifejacket
- Take at least two methods of communication, such as mobile phone and VHF radio
Rock fishing
Rock fishing is an increasingly popular recreational past-time. Unfortunately every year, on average, four rock fishers drown after they are swept off the rocks by large waves.
Remember the following when rock fishing:
- Wear a lifejacket
- Pay particular attention to swell and tide information.
- Never fish in exposed areas during rough or large seas
- Spend at least ten minutes observing the sea conditions before approaching the rock ledge
- Never turn your back on the sea
- Pay attention to warning signs
- Never fish from wet rocks where waves and spray have obviously been sweeping over them.