Fishing - preventing injury

Fishing is an enjoyable recreational activity that carries a relatively low risk of injury. It can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Most fishing injuries are minor and are caused by cutting or piercing objects, or by falls. Even so, fishing hooks and rods can be dangerous if they are not handled with care, and people who make their own lead sinkers face a risk of lead poisoning.

The more serious dangers are drowning and accidents, especially when rock and ledge fishing, boat fishing or surf fishing. Each year a number of people drown while fishing, so it is worth taking safety seriously every time you head out.

Rock and ledge fishing is particularly dangerous#

Rock fishing is one of the riskiest forms of the activity, and many fishing fatalities happen while people are fishing from rocks or ledges. A few general safety habits go a long way:

• Never go fishing alone. Always fish with someone else and, ideally, with two other people.
• If one person is injured or in danger, a second person can stay with them while the third goes for help.
• Let somebody know where you are going, who you are going with and roughly when you expect to be back.
• Carry a charged mobile phone with you at all times.
• Wear non-slip shoes and take care to avoid slipping or cutting yourself on sharp, rocky edges.

Dress for the conditions#

Wear lightweight garments in layers. Bulky woollen jumpers become extremely heavy and hard to remove if you fall into the water.

Carry a first aid kit#

Protect yourself from the sun. Wear sun-protective clothing, use a high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm, wear an appropriate hat, seek shade where possible and wear sunglasses. Take plenty of drinking water.

Avoid alcohol while fishing#

Alcohol can impair your judgement and seriously reduce your chances of survival if you fall into the water.

Wear a life jacket#

A life jacket can save your life if you fall into the water, whether you are on a boat or near the water’s edge. It is extremely difficult to put a life jacket on once an emergency is already happening or once you are in the water, so it is far safer to wear one at all times.

Wear a life jacket when fishing off rocks, ledges, a riverbank or a boat. Make sure a life jacket is available for every person, including children, and that they are worn at all times while in or near the water. Check and follow any local rules about when life jackets or personal flotation devices must be worn on vessels.

Use and store fishing equipment safely#

Fishing hooks and rods can be dangerous if not handled with care, and lead sinkers can be a risk to your family’s health and to the environment. Some suggestions include:

• Make sure the hook is secure, and hold the rod parallel to the ground when carrying it.
• Cover or remove fish hooks from rods before transporting them. Exposed hooks should be corked or placed in a hook safety cover.
• Keep a safe distance from the person next to you, and check that no one is behind you before you cast.
• Instruct beginners and children in safe rod and hook procedures.

Take care if you make your own lead sinkers#

Melting, grinding, sanding or swallowing lead can be dangerous. Young children and pregnant women are especially at risk. Follow safety precautions for handling and storing lead products, avoid working with lead in or around your home, and consider using non-lead alternatives.

Stay aware of the weather#

Make sure you have the most up-to-date local weather information and be prepared for sudden changes. At coastal locations, pay particular attention to unexpected tide and swell conditions.

Safety when rock fishing#

Because rock fishing is so hazardous, take extra precautions:

• Make sure you thoroughly understand the area where you are fishing, including the tidal behaviour, how to get in and out, and an escape plan.
• If the swell threatens where you are standing, leave immediately.
• Fish in a group of at least three people and always stay in sight of each other. If one person is washed into the sea, another can stay and assist while the third gets help.
• Learn to swim if you cannot. Classes are available for adults as well as children.
• Wear a life jacket or buoyancy vest.
• Never wear waders when rock fishing, as they can quickly become heavy if you fall in.
• Look for secure footholds and stay away from sloping, slippery edges.
• Obey all danger signs and never turn your back on the sea.

Safety when surf fishing#

Learn how to read the surf and how to identify and avoid rips before you begin. Do not enter rips to fish. Gentle, sloping beaches with a non-threatening wave pattern are ideal for safe surf fishing.

Safety when boat fishing#

Plan carefully before going out on the water. Make sure all your safety equipment, including a radio, is in good working order, and check fuel levels before you leave. Have your motor and boat serviced regularly, and update your boating knowledge and practise your skills.

If you fall into moving water, do not feel for the bottom with your feet. Try to steer towards a clear bank, feeling for the bottom with your hands, as underwater rocks, tree trunks and debris are less likely to snare your trailing hands.

Stop fishing immediately if an injury occurs and seek prompt medical treatment. Always carry a charged mobile phone with you in case of emergency.

Key points#

• Fishing is an enjoyable recreational activity that has a low risk of injury.
• Drowning and accidents are the main risks when rock and ledge fishing, boat fishing or surf fishing.
• Fishing with others is especially important when rock fishing.
• Take care when using and storing fishing equipment to avoid injury.
• Lead sinkers can be a risk to your family’s health and to the environment.