Rockfishing is considered one of the most exciting yet dangerous past-time fishing activities. Over the years, many individuals died while rock fishing, either due to the inherently dangerous locations for rock fishing, unpredictable nature of the ocean or the lack of knowledge in surviving this activity. Knowing the dos and don’ts of rock fishing would definitely help you perform fishing off the rocks successfully; surviving this activity is another different concern. You need to know the time to break out the new motor battery or not and if the weather is bad, it might mean leaving it in the shed for another day.
Anyone can find themselves in difficult situations during rock fishing, but there are things you can do to make your fishing trip enjoyable and safe. We have provided you with a checklist to help you get through this activity.
Step 1: Check and Know the Weather Conditions
Make sure you check the local marine weather forecast including the tide, swell and the wind’s strength and direction before going fishing. Once at the fishing spot, observe the current condition first before approaching the rock ledge. Wave conditions can change as the tide changes. Always pay attention to warning signs.
Step 2: Wear appropriate clothing
- Wear light clothing (e.g. spray jacket and shorts); this will let you swim easily if you are swept off. Other heavy clothing will be difficult to take off and weigh you down when wet.
- Wear footwear that stops you from slipping into the water and can provide you a good grip. Cleats, non-slip soles, and other non-slip shoes would be best worn when rock fishing.
Step 3: Have the right safety gear and equipment
- Always wear a personal floatation device (life jackets); this will keep you from drowning in the water in case you get swept off. A life jacket is one of the most important gears that can save your life in the event of a sudden, unexpected fall in the water. Always take a tie rope with you. This can be used to tie yourself to a natural anchor when fishing to provide support or use the rope to help just in case someone is in trouble.
- Carry at least two communication devices with you such as mobile phone, VHF radio, torch or flares when fishing. Mobile phone coverage may be poor in remote areas, so a backup phone (satellite phone) is necessary. In a case of emergency, dial 112 to access emergency services.
Step 4: In case of accidental slips, always stay calm
Never fish alone. Make sure to take a buddy with you. If you fall in, at least one person is there to call the emergency hotline and help you. If you are swept off, swim away from rocks as much as possible and look for a safer place. Stay calm and wait for help to arrive.
Tags: fishing survival, rock fishing, safety fishing Posted by