Fishing

Planning on going fishing soon?


Each fishing trip differs in location and conditions, presenting various hazards on each occasion.

For information on boating safety follow this link.

Anyone can find themselves in difficulty or worse when around the water but there are some simple things you can do to make your fishing trip as safe and enjoyable as possible.

Before you go

  • Learn to swim and survive – if you can’t swim you have no business being near the water;
  • Check the marine weather forecast including the swell, tide and wind strength and direction;
  • Communicate – ask questions about the area you will be fishing, listen to advice, read and obey all warning signs – they are there for your protection;
  • Leave information – tell someone responsible where you are going and when you are due to return.

What to take

  • Another person – NEVER fish alone;
  • PFD’s – one correctly fitting life jacket for each person;
  • Communication Devices – mobile phone, VHF radio, flares, torch. If something unplanned occurs and you get into difficulty you will need to be able to communicate your situation or at least draw attention to our position.

 

Rock Fishing

Rock fishing is an increasingly popular recreational past-time and can be a successful way to catch a fish. Unfortunately every year rock fishers drown because they were fishing in the wrong place at the wrong time.

The precautions listed above certainly apply to rock fishing but the nature of the environment means there are additional safety measure you need to consider.

  • Wear a buoyancy aid;
  • Pay particular attention to swell and tide information.
  • Fish only areas you know are safe and NEVER fish in exposed areas during rough or large seas;
  • Observe First – spend at least 10 minutes observing the sea conditions prior to getting onto a rock ledge to fish;
  • Stay Alert – NEVER turn your back on the sea;
  • Pay attention to warning signs – they are there for a reason!
  • NEVER fish from wet rocks where waves and spray have obviously been sweeping over them.

DON’T PUT YOUR LIFE ON THE LINE!