Disclosure: We may earn commissions if you purchase products after clicking on a link from our site.
Are you planning a deep sea fishing trip? Do you know how to be safe on a deep sea fishing trip? A deep sea fishing trip is an exciting, fun, and memorable adventure. Safety on a deep sea fishing trip is important and in this article, we discuss some deep sea fishing safety tips to help you be safe while on the open waters.
Deep Sea Fishing Safety Tips
- Appropriate Clothing
When going on a deep sea fishing trip, always take along the right clothing for deep sea fishing. If you are not sure what is “appropriate clothing” for deep sea fishing, you can do some research online, or contact a friend or family member who went on a deep sea fishing trip.
Or call the charter service you booked the trip with to give you some ideas. They will be the best source as they will advise you based on where they will take the group, the weather during the day, and the type of boat they have.
2. Monitor The Weather
When going on a deep sea fishing trip, it is always a good idea to monitor the weather. Monitor the weather for the entire month, including the week that you will be going on the deep sea fishing trip. This will give you an idea of the clothing and footwear to take along, as well as other items.
3. First-Aid Kit
It is always good to take along a portable first-aid kit with you. The charter service will have its own first-aid kit, but taking along your personal kit is a good idea. You know your medical history and that of your family and will know all of the items that you need to take along while on a deep sea fishing trip.
Additionally, take all medication with you if you or any member of your family are on any medication. Seasickness can be uncomfortable and dimmer the fun of a deep sea fishing trip. Knowing how to prevent seasickness when fishing is very important when going on a fishing trip. Remember to take with you seasickness medication to prevent it when deep sea fishing.
4. Inform Family or Friends
Always inform other family members or friends of your deep sea fishing trip. Give them details cush as how long is the trip, where you will be embarking on the vessel, the name of the vessel, and other details that you know. It is good to share this information with family so they are aware of where you will be and how long the trip.
5. File a Float Plan
Although you gave information about your deep sea fishing trip to family members, it is also a good idea to file a float plan with the U. S. Coast Guard. This gives the United States Coast Guard precise information about your trip that they can reference in case there is an emergency. The Captain of the fishing vessel will file a float plan, but it doesn’t hurt for you to do one yourself.
6. Safety Equipment
At the onset of the fishing trip, the Captain and his crew will go over some things including safety protocols with everyone. They will disclose where safety equipment and gear are located on the vessel. Make sure you listen and get to know where the safety equipment is located on the fishing boat just in case you or someone needs them while on the fishing trip.
7. Injury Prevention
While in the deep sea with the waves splashing and other members of the deep sea fishing trip catching big fish and reeling them in, the adrenaline level can go up quickly with the excitement and fun. Always try to control your excitement and guard against injuring yourself.
Injuries can easily happen with fishing equipment such as hooks, fillet knives, fishing lines, lures, etc., battling a large and powerful fish, or tripping over something, falling, etc. Be aware of the deck and where everything is located as things move around when the action increases. Deep sea fishing safety tips including injury prevention allow you to have a great and memorable fishing trip.
8. Learn To Use Fishing Equipment
Before fishing starts, you and the other passengers will be given a demonstration on how to use the fishing gear. If there is anything that you didn’t understand, inform the crew so they go over it and make sure you fully understand it.
Take some time to figure out how to use the fishing gear and get as comfortable with it as possible before you start fishing. Help your kids or spouse with figuring out how to use the equipment if they need your help. To have a successful fishing trip, you must learn how to use the fishing equipment.
9. Extra Snacks
Make sure to take along snacks, water, and anything food that you and your family will like to snack on. This will make you more comfortable during the fishing trip and not be uncomfortable and want to return.
Additionally, take with you extra bottles of water even though the charter service may have bottles. You have no idea how much water will be consumed while on the open waters with the sun beaming down on you. You want to remain hydrated during the fishing trip.
10. Extra Sun Protection
Out on open waters, the weather can be more punishing. The sun’s rays can give you a beating if you are not prepared for it or you can get drenched with rain. Don’t forget to take with you polarized sunglasses for everyone who goes with you on the fishing trip.
Fishing hats, neck gaiters, fishing gloves, lots of wipes, lip balm, medium-sized towels, rain jackets, and rubber-soled footwear are some of the extras you should remember to carry for a safe and comfortable deep sea fishing trip.
The Bottom Line
A deep sea fishing trip is an awesome experience and the safety of everyone onboard the fishing boat is very important. Knowing how to plan a deep sea fishing trip will ensure your safety and that of anyone going with you must be a major concern. In this article, we discussed deep sea fishing safety tips to help you plan your trip.
