ROCKFISHING – Never fish alone!

The solitude of rockfishing is definitely one of the alluring factors of this popular sport.

But Neville Goldspring, member of the NSW Water Safety Taskforce, says the safest
way to be at one with the elements is to take a friend, or two.

A recent comprehensive research project into rockfishing fatalities found that one in
four people who died were fishing alone at the time of their death.

“ Our Association advises that it’s best to fish with at least three people, and within
sight of one another,” says Neville.

That way, if someone is washed into the sea, one person can stay and help while
the other alerts emergency services by dialing 911 or preset numbers for the Coast Guard or other local emergency agencies.

In many cases, but not all…cell phone users can also dial *CG to readily access the coast guard for emergency assistance.”

We highly recommend that anglers program important emergency telephone numbers into their cell phones for localities within each of the states in which they fish, so that they are readily available in cases of emergency where panic can jar the mind, and cost the precious time necessary for saving a life.

Additionally, if you don’t have any rock fishing buddies, Neville recommends joining
a local fishing club.

“ This is a good way to get to know local anglers and learn more about rock fishing
safety issues and techniques,” says Neville.

Neville says it’s also important to always let friends or family know where you are
going, and when you will be back.

“ If you are washed in, stay calm and swim out and away from the rocks,” says Neville.

“ Either look for a safe place to come ashore or stay afloat and wait for help to arrive.”

Contrary to popular belief among some in the rockfishing fraternity, it is not only the
inexperienced who can put their lives on the line while rockfishing.

“ Our research found that rockfishers who fished “very often” were more likely to fish
alone than beginners or those who only rockfish occasionally”.

“ While they may believe that their experience will save them, in the event of a fall or
unexpected rough seas, they are really putting their life on the line because there will
be nobody to call for help in such cases of emergency”.

“ Being able to swim does not ensure your safety.”

We at Bliz Lures Strongly recommend that you take an annual refresher course on fishing safety. It is dangerous for anglers to trust their own abilities alone to save them from the immense power of the sea, and the bone crushing force that is experienced when being washed into rock pilings.

Don’t put your life at risk for the love of the sport!