Safety
Always pitting our wits against nature we need to continually be mindful of safety. We have all heard of how easy it is for hooks to penetrate the skin in the most awkward places and little water it takes to drown in. I have just put together a list of reminders concerning our fishing safety.
- Don't spend too much time on the Internet you may damage your eyes or get RSI. GET OUT FISHING MORE OFTEN!
- Be careful when wading. Rocks, drop offs and fast flowing water all need careful consideration.
- Always wear life jackets when afloat. Anglian Water insist on it these days, they do save lives.
- Wear eye protection. Absolutely essential if your boat partner is casting over your head in a boat, but a good habit to get into. Keep an eye around you especially if you are casting from the bank to ensure there is no one behind. Many more waters are opening up to the public these days, especially Pitsford and they don't always understand the dangers.
- Protect your skin. The glare off the water is extremely powerful even in short periods in between cloud cover. Keep covered up, wear a hat and don't forget to use the suncream.
- Don't stand up in a boat if you don't have to. It can be extremely unstable and you never know what your partner is going to do next.
- Keep your engine running until you have fully completed your manouvre. This especially applies if :
- you are approaching or leaving a pontoon
- you are approaching a bank at the end of your drift
- you are stopping the boat to start a drift
8. If you're in a thunderstorm put your rod down.
9. If there are high winds check that you can get back to the lodge, make sure if you are anchoring it is point down wind rather than broadside and if you are motoring keep the revs down and plan your route up and across the wind.
I hope you have a safe trip and catch plenty!
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