Three anglers have died in Ireland so far this year as a result of drowning, according to the latest figures from Irish Water Safety.
The sobering news has prompted a reminder from Inland Fisheries Ireland to all anglers to follow safety guidelines when fishing either on waterways, on the coast or at sea.
As angling is a water-based activity, anglers often have to deal with changing conditions and hidden dangers — but there are a number of simple tips to follow to stay safer when going fishing:
- Wear a life jacket.
- Follow advice on warning signs, permits and notices.
- Don’t take any risks when wading or fishing from boat, shore or bank.
- Check the weather forecast and tide tables before you go.
- Take time to observe weather, water and tide conditions while fishing.
- Fish with a partner/buddy or let someone know where you’re going.
- Take a fully charged mobile phone in a waterproof case/bag.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear.
“There are 273,000 domestic anglers in Ireland who enjoy fishing at the many scenic destinations across the country. Many anglers have been fishing for many years and may feel experienced on being near or on the water however we would appeal to anglers to follow these simple safety steps at all times,” says IFI’s Suzanne Campion.
“Although game angling has finished for 2018, angling for other species continues in many isolated peripheral and rural areas and with winter approaching, it is important to stay safe.”
Safety on the Water’s Angling Water Safety Guidelines details guidelines around safety on lakes and at sea alongside important information on tides and currents, what to wear, and the type of boat you should use.
“We would ask anglers to take some time to familiarise themselves with this safety information and to remember their safety is a priority when angling,” Campion adds.
Also useful is the Angling Safety Checklist, and Fishing in Ireland’s detailed online guide to water safety.
