Kayak Fishing Safety
Friday, March 20, 2009 at 4:16PM Safety is the number one concern while fishing from a kayak.During the month of April, it’s not unusual to have days that reach 70, 75, or even 80 degrees.This creates a few problems for us while on the water.First, a warm day may cause people to dress in lighter clothing such as shorts and a T-shirt.Second, many people don’t realize that although the air temperature is warmer, the water temperature is still dangerously low.All it takes is a short time submerged in cold water to put your life in jeopardy.These risks can be significantly reduced if you take the necessary precautions before getting out on the water.I want to note that the suggestions I make are only that: suggestions.You as an individual have to decide what is best for you when it comes to your safety.These are the precautions that I take before going out on the water.There are three areas of kayak fishing safety I am going to talk about.They include safety equipment, items to bring with you while kayak fishing, and the weather.
Safety Equipment
The number one piece of safety equipment is the PFD or Personal Floatation Device.It should be coast guard approved, and be an appropriate size for the person wearing it.Make sure that you purchase one that is highly visible.For example, one that has reflective tape incorporated in the design.Also, make sure the PFD is comfortable.You will not wear one if it is not comfortable, especially on very hot, humid days in the summer.I have a vest that is made of a mesh material around the chest and neck.It provides good ventilation even in the hot summer months.Another suggestion is to purchase one with front pockets.It’s not necessary, but is a nice place to put small items such as lures, and candy bars.Check out these websites for more information on PFD’s.
Now that you have a PFD, you will need to keep several safety items attached to it at all times:
1)Whistle:Used as an attention getter in time of distress, and it’s recommended by the Coast Guard
2)Knife:Make sure it is easily accessible in case of emergency.You will have fishing line, rod leashes, and a paddle leash which all have the potential for entanglement.A short knife that has a quick release sheath which is attached to your PFD may come in handy.
3)PFD light:the purpose is for visibility when fishing at night.Also, an LED headlamp comes in handy for seeing what you are doing at night.
4)VHF radio:This is necessary when fishing in saltwater.You will have direct contact with the coast guard in case of an emergency.Make sure its waterproof, and attach it to you PFD.
Other items to bring
These are items you will need to store in your kayak.Number one is a first aid kit sealed in a waterproof container or dry bag.You will definitely want extra clothing in a dry bag which can be stored in one of the kayak hatches.Additionally you will want plenty of food and water, and a cell phone in a waterproof bag.All these items can be stored within the hatches in your kayak.They can also be placed in waterproof dry bags which are secured in the tank well behind your seat.
Weather
Cold water will reduce your body temperature quickly and can prove to be life threatening.I suggest layering clothes made of fleece type material.It will wick moisture away quickly, and will dry faster.Over top, you should wear a waders/drytop combination which is cinched around the waist, or a breathable drysuit.This will keep you dry, and the clothing underneath will keep you warm.The drysuit is expensive, but I feel its well worth it for the ease of putting it on, and the security of knowing you are safe.The sun is a factor as well.Reflected water can really give you a nice burn if you don’t wear sun block.Always wear sunscreen that is waterproof and has a high SPF.
So, to review kayak fishing safety:
1)Always wear a coast guard approved PFD
2)Wear the proper clothing for cold water situations
3)Keep a whistle, knife, light, and radio on your PFD at all times
4)Bring plenty of food and water, cell phone, first aid kit, and extra clothing
5)And don’t forget your sunscreen
Good Luck and safe fishing
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