Whether you are fishing from shore or boat, fishing conditions in Tasmania can be cold and rough.
One of the most important things you can do before you
go fishing or boating is telling someone where you’re heading and when
you’ll be back.
Below are some more important steps you can take to stay safe on your next fishing trip.
Know before you go: Check the weather forecast
Tassie experiences some wild weather that can really impact your fishing experience. No matter what sort of fishing you’re planning to do, it’s always best to check the weather forecast so you can be prepared for the conditions.
- Check the forecast and plan for conditions
- Wear appropriate clothes for the weather and forecast
You can plan your trip and check the marine weather forecast online at Marine & Ocean (bom.gov.au).
Fishing from land
If you are fishing from one of the brilliant shore-based fishing locations around Tasmania, make your fishing adventure a safe one by following these tips:
- Don’t fish alone - always fish with a mate.
- Carry safety gear and a first aid kit, particularly if you’re fishing in a remote area.
- Don’t turn your back on the water, especially when fishing in areas with waves and swell – water conditions can change quickly.
Rock Fishing
Don’t put your life on the line. Rock fishing from rocky ledges and headlands can be dangerous.
Find out more about how to stay safe while rock fishing (e.g. by wearing a life jacket) from Royal Life Saving Australia.
Safe Diving
The waters around Tassie offer some of the best diving in Australia, and many Tasmanians enjoy diving recreationally.
Freediving, scuba diving and hookah diving can all be dangerous activities if not done responsibly, but you can reduce the risk by following some simple safety tips:
- Make sure you’re adequately trained and understand best practice diving procedures.
- Only use certified equipment that has been maintained and tested.
- Have a dive buddy.
- If you’re diving from a vessel, have a ‘look-out’ aboard the boat whilst you’re in the water.
- Always be aware of your surrounding whilst underwater.
In the event of an emergency, call 000.
You can find more information about dive safety on the Marine and Safety Tasmania, Royal Life Saving Australia and the Department of Health - Diver and Hyperbaric Medicine websites.
Safe boating
Marine and Safety Tasmania (MAST) is the managing authority responsible for ensuring the safe operation of vessels and environmental issues relating to vessels.
For safe boating information including planning your trip, making sure your boat is well maintained, not overloaded and has the required safety equipment, see the MAST website.