Safe fishing from a boat! For anglers: safety measures when fishing from a boat

Everyone knows that fishing is a great form of active recreation, but few think about the fact that a person with a fishing rod can face various dangers while fishing. Meanwhile, any body of water, even one that seems familiar, is a place of certain risk. Therefore, every fishing enthusiast needs constant attention and adherence to basic safety measures. Water in winter is quite cold, and if the boat capsizes and the fisherman falls into the water, wet clothes will drag him down, hindering every movement. Therefore, it can be quite difficult to save oneself.

To avoid drowning in reservoirs, the Belarusian Voluntary Society for the Rescue of Persons on Water (OSVOD) reminds about the need to observe safety measures when fishing, especially when fishing from a boat. Firstly, it is necessary to know what difficult situations a boater can get into on the water. Secondly, remember that the main condition for safety when fishing from a boat is the angler's neatness and caution. Thirdly, people who cannot swim are contraindicated from fishing from a boat. It is difficult to describe all possible dangerous situations that may await a fisherman in a boat, but based on practical experience, some tips can be given that will help save yourself and others in an emergency.

Before going to the reservoir, check the condition of the boat, oars, and oarlocks. If the boat is inflatable, check for air leaks through the valves. To do this, simply wet the valves with water.

Don't forget a life jacket. Do not clutter the bottom of the boat near your seat: arrange tackle and necessary accessories neatly along the sides. Nothing should be placed on your feet in an inflatable boat. They should always be free of items, tackle, and various ropes.

Do not overload the boat. Make sure that water does not accumulate in it. Do not hold the boat sideways to strong wind and waves. When fishing while standing, position yourself in the middle of the boat, spreading your legs for greater stability. It is strictly forbidden to stand up fully in an inflatable boat. In a rubber boat, you cannot fish while sitting on the side or on a board thrown from side to side. You cannot sleep while floating in any boat.

If an accident occurs – the boat capsizes, do not climb onto it, it is pointless, as any boat is unstable in this position. Without losing composure, you should grab onto the boat and, using your legs, bring it to a shoal or to the shore.
Addressing fishing enthusiasts, we hope that you will not encounter many of the situations listed, and that this type of leisure will bring you only positive emotions. Take care of yourself and your loved ones.