Storms

Fishing From Boats

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Boating during a storm can be dangerous, especially when there is lightning, strong wind or high waves. The first thing to do is make sure everyone is wearing a PFD. Put all fishing rods in the bottom of the boat. Stay low or lie down in the boat to reduce the risk of capsizing. Get off the water as soon as you can.

Don't fish during an electrical storm. Anglers are killed every year when their rods or boats are hit by lightning.

If you can't get off the water, try to prevent waves from coming in over the stern or striking the boat on its side. The best way is to keep the boat moving at a slight angle into the waves. Moving with the waves can be dangerous. They can come in over the transom and fill the boat with water. This could sink the boat.

If you have no choice and must ride out a storm on the water, use a heavy anchor with a long line attached to the bow of the boat. The anchor line needs to be at least seven times the depth of the water so that the anchor can hold to the bottom. If the anchor drags, make sure that the boat is not pulled into rocks, shallow water, or rougher water.

This information provided by Future Fisherman Foundation