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Basic rules: No fish is worth risking your life. Although fishing is an extremely safe activity, there are a few important safety rules for everyone to follow. Weather: Some people say the fish bite better when the rain falls -- some say you just get wet -- but paying attention to the weather is important to the safety of the fisherman. Lightning is the biggest danger related to weather during spring, summer and fall. Never fish when there is lightning nearby. Sun and heat are important considerations to remember, too. Take plenty of sunscreen, and apply it often. At the other end of the scale, danger from cold weather (hypothermia) is always an issue in Montana, when snow can fall, cold rain can fall and cold winds can blow during any month of the year. Fishing from shore: It may seem strange to see someone wearing a life jacket when fishing from shore or the bank of a river, but it's never a bad idea to wear a life jacket. Always let someone know where you are going fishing, and when you will return. And try not to fish alone. It's more fun to fish with a good friend, and safer too. Fishing from a boat: The number most important rule to follow when fishing from a boat is to always wear a life jacket. Keep it on even when the boat has stopped. In fact, anyone in a boat who is under 12 years of age must wear a life jacket or PFD at all times. And it's not a bad idea to have your parents wear a life jacket, too. After all, almost nobody in a boat ever plans to fall in. So be prepared. Ice fishing: A good rule to always follow when ice fishing is to never be the first person to step out on the ice. Wait until you have seen someone else out fishing first and never take a chance on thin ice. Wait for AT LEAST 4-6 inches of clear, solid ice before venturing out. It's also a good idea to carry a few safety items, like a whistle, ice picks, and a length of rope -- and never ice fish alone. on how you can have fun spending a day ice fishing |
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