Take care of yourself and never take unnecessary risks when fishing, especially when fighting fish or retrieving tackle. Never go into the water to retrieve snagged fish or lost tackle. Don't fish if the area appears to be risky.

When fishing from a boat or in potentially dangerous regions such as rock platforms or near fast-moving water, always wear a life jacket. Wearing non-slip shoes may also be appropriate.

If someone falls into the water, instead of jumping in after them, look for an angel ring, life buoy, or other floatable object to throw to the person in the water. By dialling 000 on your phone, you can alert emergency services.

Always verify the weather and water conditions before starting your fishing trip.

Tell Someone Where You Are
Always let friends or relatives know where you're going and when you'll be back if you're going fishing.

Wear a belt around your waist if you're wearing chest waders. If you fall in, the belt will trap some air inside and offer some buoyancy, but be careful because it may also push you upside down.

If you fall in, roll onto your back while keeping your knees tucked. To keep your balance, use your arms. Instead of trying to swim, tread water or float. If you're close to the coast, employ a "sculling" motion to get closer. If you're in a strong river, face downstream and swim with the current feet first, aiming for a secure shore position if possible.

Are lifejackets compulsory on a boat in NSW?

Yes. A lifejacket is the most important safety device a boat can have. Lifejackets are also known as PFD's or personal flotation devices. Each vessel must have a lifejacket for each passenger. It is highly recommended that each person wear a PFD. There must be appropriate and clear signage as to where lifejackets are stored.

The rules can vary dependent on the type of vessel you are in or if you are in enclosed waters, open waters and rivers. If the captain tells you to wear a lifejacket then you must.

Emergency Boat Distress Signalling Devices

Hopefully you never have to find yourself in a situation where you have to set off a distress signal. Distress signal devices can be from flare guns to beacons. The curvature of the earth falls away at approximately 3 kilometres. In other words if you were on a flat surface it would be hard to see someone beyond this distance.

1. Plan before you leave
2. Keep your boat tidy
3. All lures and hooks should be in boxes
4. Dont leave fishing lines on the floor
5. Inspect all your safety gear regularly
6. Wear your lifejacket
7. Carry lots of water and sunscreen
8. Keep your eye on the weather
9. Make sure you have enough fuel
10. Ensure your communication devices work

Emergency Beacon

What is an EPIRB? An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon is a device that is used in situations where immediate recuse is required. The EPIRB is a portable battery operated device that can alert authorities of its exact location via radio transmission.