More than 3.8 million Germans go fishing at least once a year, according to the German Fishing Federation! Many of these sportfishers travel to the great sportfishing destinations in Europe and around the world, like, for example, when fishing in Norwegian coastal waters and fjords. They are not only breathtakingly beautiful and also extremely rich in fish, but they are also demanding waters in terms of weather, navigation and safety.
So, if you want to explore any of these popular sportfishing destinations either by boat, chartered or your own trailer boat, or from the shoreline, there are a few important things to keep in mind: The best way to go fishing at a new destination is with a guide. Locals usually know their territories best and have the experience to interpret local weather situations, for example.
Boat equipment A well and safely equipped boat always includes an anchor with long enough anchor line and chain lead, a life belt with a buoyant lifeline, a tow-line made of stretchy material, enough life belts for all the crew, complete navigational equipment such as a bearing compass, nautical charts, navigation aids and, if possible, a radio. This can be used, for example, to alert the coast guard even if the fishing boat is out of mobile phone range. Life-saving equipment includes a life raft for at least the number of people allowed on board. A first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, a torch with morse key, binoculars, and flares complete the standard rescue equipment.
Self-organized tours Also if you venture out on a fishing tour your own, be it on a fishing boat, with a belly boat or in a kayak, always take extra care to stay safe. A life jacket should have the highest priority when you go out on the water. Make sure to be aware of local currents and expected weather conditions and gather all available navigational information about the area. Then, of course, your equipment needs to be adapted to these conditions you expect. The general rule for fishing with belly boats and kayaks is: never go further from the shore than the distance you can safely swim back in an emergency.
General codes of conduct For any kind of leisure activities on, in or under water, there are some basic rules that should generally be observed. Whoever spends their spare time anywhere near the water, should for their own safety always be able to swim safely as well as know and respect their own limits. Also, always leave a note with someone on shore about your planned trip, where you are heading and when you plan to be back. Wearing a suitable life jacket should be a matter of course for all boaters, whether sailors, motorboaters or canoeists, stand up paddler, kiters or anglers. For their own good and as a role model for young people, who are often rather hostile to this type of security measure.
Autor: Tom Stender
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