Safety is always a top consideration, no matter when and where you’re on the water. Fishing during the summer months has additional considerations of its own. 

Weather

Weather is arguably one of the fastest ways to make or break a day in summer. Inclement weather can not only ruin your plans; it can also become a safety concern. Check the local forecast before leaving for a day on the water. High winds can wreak havoc while fishing and when launching or loading a boat. Other conditions, like thunderstorms, can become increasingly dangerous; it’s important to know what’s coming and when it’s coming. Things tend to change fast in the summer, so if something doesn’t look right, check the forecast again. 

Heat

While this could technically be lumped in with the “Weather” category, heat precautions are an important consideration, more in-depth discussion. The best advice is to be prepared for the worst (i.e. high sun and hot temperatures). In the Midwest, we see extremes on both ends, so it’s smart to plan for hot and humid conditions. On the worst of days, it may be best to limit your fishing to the cooler parts of the day, like sunrise and sunset. 

Staying hydrated is without a doubt the most important factor. Dehydration is a legitimate concern if you aren’t drinking enough liquids—particularly water. Recent recommendations state that the average male should drink roughly 15.5 cups of fluid per day, while the average female should drink roughly 11.5 cups of fluid daily. 

Sun protection is a significant issue for water safety. A nasty sunburn is an easy way to ruin a trip. The reflective factor from the water only adds to the necessity of protection. Sunscreen should be applied, and reapplied, several times throughout the course of day. Brands differ, but in general, every two hours is a good rule of thumb. For those who don’t like sunscreen, invest in UV-protective clothing. There’s a wide range of options on the market to meet any angler’s needs, including long-sleeve shirts, pants, and more. 

Another reminder: Wear your sunglasses. They aren’t just for looking cool. The right sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful rays. 

Fishing

Here are key considerations regarding that apply to fishing almost any time of year. 

It’s easy to get in the zone, but being mindful can help avoid unintended consequences. Know exactly where you’re casting and pay attention to your surroundings. Handle equipment and fish carefully. Hook- and fish-related injuries are fairly common.

In addition to mindfulness and proper handling, proper boat organization helps prevent incidents. For example, keeping equipment stowed when not in use can eliminate tripping hazards. 

Boating

Boating safety gets a lot of emphasis in summer. It’s easy to assume that all is well on the water, but boating accidents are responsible for numerous injuries, and even some fatalities, throughout the summer months. 

Life jackets are a must. It may not seem “cool” to wear your life jacket, but at a minimum, you should wear your life jacket while operating the boat. The life jackets of today are far more advanced and more comfortable to wear than the traditional options. Have at least one, appropriately sized life vest for everyone on the boat. In many states, a throwable device is required as well. 

Include a fire extinguisher, sounding device (i.e. whistle, airhorn), navigational lights, and a form of communication, like a cell phone. 

Maintenance is an often neglected or forgotten safety factor. A little TLC goes a long way in preventing issues on the water. Ensure that everything is in working order before leaving the access.

Others

In addition to the above discussed factors, take a handful of other considerations into account for safety. 

A first aid kit is a must-have for fishing situations. It’s equally important to know where it’s located. Such tools can be lifesavers if the unexpected arises. 

While it seems like alcohol and fishing go hand in hand, it’s not the brightest idea on the water. If you’re wanted to have a few adult beverages, wait until you’re off the lake. 

Let someone know where you’re fishing, especially if you’re planning to fish alone. Provide details about where you’ll be and how long you’ll be gone. 

Summer is a great time for fishing. Across much of the northern U.S. and Canada, our nice days are limited, so enjoy them. That being said, it’s important to practice safety on the water.