Consider these fishing tips before your next adventure:
- Wear a life jacket at all times while on the water. Have your canine companion wear one as well.
- Never overload your boat (with too many people or too much gear).
- Be mindful to avoid falling overboard, capsizing, or swamping. Many incidents occur when a hunter or angler leans over the edge of the boat or suddenly stands up.
- Understand the conditions for hypothermia. Dress in layers for the water temperature (dress for immersion), not the air temperature.
- Always check the weather before heading out, and assess conditions throughout the day.
- File a float plan! Let friends or family back home know where you’re going and when you plan to return.
More resources are available at www.safeboatingcampaign.com.