Tuesday 25 December 2012

What You Don't Know About Rock Fishing Could Kill You

By Robert Cliford


Generally speaking, fishing is not considered a dangerous sport. It's a common sport or leisure activity, be it angler fishing or deep sea. Fishing is associated with certain risks, although many are not aware of them.

In recent years, rock fishing has come under scrutiny because of the drownings associated with it. Although this type of fishing is popular in New Zealand as well, Australia has had the top number of related deaths. Just so you know, atleast 8 of the 80 deaths that occured on the coast of Australia in 2009 were due to rock fishing. Rock fishing is for the purpose of finding better fish by angling from rocks in the ocean instead of from the beach.

It is the dangerous waves that sweep victims away. They can drown directly from the water or hit their heads against the rocks when the waves come, leaving them unconscious and unable to fend for themselves.

What can be done to decrease the number of fishing deaths?The statistics are 94 deaths in 2009-2010 of which 12 were related to fishing. In 2009-2010, there were 12 deaths. Again in 2011, 10% of coastal drownings in Australia were from rock fishing. Once again in 2011, 10% of drownings were directly from rock fishing. These numbers are reported from the Australian Coastal Report. Although no amount of precautions can guarantee it, an interesting discovery was made about the victims of rock fishing. According to a researcher in Victoria, Dr Matthews, no one who drowned from fishing were wearing life jackets.

Campaigns have increased because of the deaths, with the number one precaution being to wear a fishing life jackets. It will allow others to see you and possibly get help before it's too late.

Other tips to remember include:

1) Dress for the occasion. This includes a fishing life jacket and slip resistant footwear. These items may be picked up at an online fishing store.

2) Buckling up is great for safety if you are boating.

3) Travel in pairs. In addition, make your families aware of where you are.

4) Make sure your hooks only end up in fish They have harmed people in the past.

5) Get familiar with the area. Many were new to the area they would be fishing in. This could have possibly prevented some of the drownings.

You've heard it. No one who drowned so far is on record as having worn a life jacket;It's time rock fishermen start to wear them. Your family will be awaiting your return.




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