5 Tips for Safe Fishing on a Boat
Fishing from a dock or the shore is all well and good, but you don’t truly have freedom until you shove off in your own fishing boat into the water. Whether you want to fish in a nearby inlet or cruise the Salish Sea looking for your ideal catch, a fishing boat provides you with the independence to go wherever you please.
However, you still need to follow good safety practices when fishing from a boat, especially during the winter and in poorer weather conditions. Bill Howich RV & Marine in Campbell River is your British Columbia fishing boat dealer. Here are some fishing safety tips to help you and your companions have an enjoyable experience on the water without incident.
1. Check the Forecast in Advance
The weather is one of the most variable factors when going out fishing and it can severely impact your safety if you’re not careful. Storms can arise near the coast easily, so it pays to be aware of what’s going on. Check the weather forecast in advance of your trip and again on the day of departure to make sure that you’re not going to face high winds, heavy rains, bitterly cold temperatures, hail or lightning. Delay or cancel your trip if any of these are on the forecast.
You can also check tidal forecasts and the state of the sea. Try Weatheradio Canada or the American NOAA websites for up-to-the-minute information on your phone or radio.
2. Establish a Float Plan
A float plan is simply the provision of information regarding your whereabouts and when you intend to return. You’ll want to share this plan with a trusted friend, family member or neighbor with whom you can stay in touch while you’re on the water. This person can alert the authorities and rescue crews if you fail to return on time or check in about delays. You can download free float plans online.
3. Check Over Safety Gear
Every fishing boat should be well-equipped with the necessary safety gear for all passengers. This includes personal flotation devices or life jackets that are in good condition, a throwable life ring, signaling devices like horns and flares, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher and extra blankets and warm clothing. Check over your supplies before you head out so you can replenish anything that needs replenishing.
4. Review the Rules
You should always follow the rules when boating, like giving other boats the right of way and assisting those who need help. Look up local laws in your area to be certain that you’re in compliance. Don’t forget to keep your boat registration and proof of insurance and boating license handy! If you feel like you need a brush-up on regulations and procedures, you can always take a boat safety course.
5. Know Your Personal Limits
It’s also important that you understand your limits as a boater and fisher. You don’t want to overextend yourself and become too fatigued to get back to shore or develop signs of hypothermia or frostbite while trying to tough out the cold. Avoid using drugs or alcohol and keep yourself fed, hydrated and warm. Take breaks whenever you need to and don’t be afraid to head back to shore sooner than you thought you would.
Still in search of the perfect fishing boat? Browse through our website to take a look at our fine selection of new and used fishing boats for sale at our dealership in Campbell River, BC. We even provide financing options if you’d like to make use of them. Bill Howich RV & Marine proudly serves the cities of Courtenay and Nanaimo, BC.