FISHING SAFETY

Keeping kids safe and happy is the most important priority when taking children fishing and there are a few easy things to do to ensure your trip is a success.

REMEMBER

1.     Be sun smart: Apply sunscreen before you go outside; wear suitable clothing, hats and sunglasses. It helps protect against UV rays but hats and glasses also act as a shield if a lure or hook goes near someone’s face or head.

2.     Life jackets: When fishing off a jetty or around deep water with children who can’t swim, think about taking a life jacket. I always put a jacket on my middle boy when he was two to three-years-old as he was very energetic and just in case he might have jumped or fell in the water - although he never did.

3.     Jetty: I always look for jetties with little boat traffic, a small drop into the water and if the jetties are long, I fish where there are ladders to climb out of the water. It is best to be prepared because if an accident happens, it doesn’t need to be a drama.

4.     Location: Getting outdoors is good for the whole family so I look for places that are safe for kids. If the water looks risky, choose a more sheltered location. Fishing off rocks can be fruitful but this is not a place I take my children because it is just too dangerous.

5.     Bright clothing: Be conscientious when you are fishing, particularly with young children. Try dressing them in bright colored clothing so you can see them easily.

6.     Weather: Check the weather forecast and if it is unfavorable, then go another day and fish during daylight hours.

7.     Keep line off fingers: Try to keep kids from wrapping fishing line around their fingers or hand. They don’t want to get into a habit of doing this as if they get a really big fish, then the line could cut their fingers.

8.     Dangerous fish: If landing big fish or ones with teeth, ensure kids keep a safe distance. Be aware of poisonous species or ones with barbs such as flatheads which can sting if you touch them.

9.     Crush barbs: This is quite easy to do, just push down the little barb under the sharp point of the hook with a pair if pliers. If you or a child accidently gets caught on a hook, it will be easy to remove and may save a traumatic visit to the doctor. It is also much better for the fish as it makes removing the hook easier and less stressful for them.

10. First aid: Take some basic first aid with you such as antiseptic cream and Band-Aids as invariably, there may be a few falls, bites or cuts that might need attention.