Let's Go Fishing

There are a lot of us who pass our time during the off season fishing. Fishing can seem like a very laid back sport with little to worry about, and for the most part it is. There are a few things that you will want to keep in mind to keep you safe while trying to relax on the water.

The first thing to remember when you are going on a fishing adventure is to prepare. Preparing starts with checking the forecast. Just because the weather looks good right now doesn't mean that it will be like that all day. Keep an eye on the sky and the weather app on your phone. Being prepared also means that you are dressed for the day. Dressing in layers and ending with a water/wind protection layer. Appropriate foot gear is required for safety. That means not sandals or bare feet allowed. Your goal is to stay dry and warm.

Another way to prepare before departure is to pack the extra items that you will need on board including water, flashlights, maps, insect repellent and cellphone or radio. Keeping these extra safety items in the boat are helpful in emergency situations. Another important safety tip to remember is to always keep your fillet knives sharp. You wouldn't want to be out on an unstable boat trying to sharpen a knife or worse yet trying to hack away at a fish with a dull one.

When you are on the water, make sure to wear your life vest at all times. Having it within reach does not count. In an emergency situation you will not think or be able to grab it before hitting the water. Put it on before leaving shore. Once out on the water, use caution when you bait or remove hooks. They are sharp and the boat is constantly moving so make sure to handle the fish carefully. Because of those reasons, you should always use safety glasses when you are casting.

One of the most important tips to remember is do not fish in areas where it is not permitted. They are off limits for a reason, usually to protect wildlife, vegetation, or for your safety. When you choose your fishing spot, always consider safety factors.

Using these tips will keep you and your new fishing buddies safe while on the water. Remember fishing is fun and following these rules will ensure that it stays that way. Now, let's go fishing.