[ocean46]

On more than one occasion during the 2007 season we were all deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life of our fellow surf-fisherman as they, like us, pursed their passion.

The first step to a safer year may be the self acknowledgment that for many, if not all of us, fishing is our obsessive pursuit. Being honest,I have had a few close calls pursuing fish. One in particular a couple of years ago at Demo was terrifying and sobering.

It's worth keeping in mind the consequences of our actions have on those that care about and count on us.

 

[ELIASV]

Agreed, always be mindful of whats under our own control.

 

[frankiesurf]

Good point. I have seen quite a few fisherman let safety go by the wayside in the pursuit. That includes myself. There are alot of
terrible things that can happen. Most of which are preventable. If you have the slightest inkling of a thought that your next action may be dangerous then please just don't do it. Think of what you may lose or who may miss you. I have certainly done a few things that my wife or Mom would have said "Are you nuts?. Learn from those experiences.

 

[ihavegills]

Safety in the surf

Might be time to bump this in order to help people prepare for the season especially anyone new that is going all out without experience. It's one thing to read about Montauk or Jetty fishing and plan a trip. It's a whole different ball game when you get there and your not prepared. Wetsuit VS Wader is another topic for the extreme surfcaster and saftey

 

[likeitreallyis]

Good point Stu, see you out there soon!

 

[634186]

I know it might not look so cool, but I like to wear an inflatable PFD when I'm in Mtk or on a jetty, especially if I'm alone. Get a good whistle and make sure your korkers are in order.

 

[Capt Pappy]

MORE ABOUT SAFETY

Hi all. Would like to add something. Mother nature is not the only one that you have to contend with when you are fishing alone especially at night. I would like to share this story. Back in 88 I got off at midnight, a real nice night in Aug, right tide for garitsen creek in Bklyn for some buck tailing. I parked in Plumb beach lot and walked to the creek and 30 min into fishing I was greeted by 2 gentlemen. I was alone. Well these fellows pulled knives and wanted to relieve me of my fishing gear and any money that I had, also my car keys. Being that I didn't want to give them my stuff. SURPRISE! out came my 38 Colt and tin and placed them under arrest, I was an NYPD Detective at the time. Marched them back to the parking lot to call a 13 on the pay phone there, no cells back then, but low and behold there was a radio car from Highway, Motorcycle 2, with a guy having cofee and donuts sitting there HA HA HA. Well it ruined my night of fishing becacuse I had to go and process these two muts but I did get some good OT out of it.
Bottom line is, don't fish alone at night in a desilate area. There aint no one there to help you if you need it. If you fall, waders fill up your gone. Thats what happened to that guy on the north shore last year.
And last but not least don't forget about about the guys that might want your stuff.
Practice fishing with a buddy just like we do when diving.
Hope this makes sence.
Capt Pappy OUT

 

[RichTrox]

Let your own personal comfort level be your guide. Always use common sense when approaching a new area. If you can, try to look it over during the day before fishing it at night. And as much as I hate them, carrying a cell phone in a plastic zip lock is a good idea if you fish alone. I've never been the poster boy for playing it safe, but at 55 years of age I am now starting to at least look before I leap

-Rich

 

[ocean46]

Not Invincible anymore

Until a few years ago, mortality never was a conscious consideration. Took the copious falls and soakings as an integral part of the hunt and that was that.

Been fortunate enough to reflect that the obsessive drive or need to be in just the right presentation position took precedence over how to get back.

This reminder note occurred after a close call in the Keys last week. It was a very dumb thing to do at night from the Southern Most Hotel in Key West, and I knew it before hand.

Reality check, it was 72 degrees and a beautiful night, I did a stupid thing and took one step to many. Came back to the room soaked and shaking, just as well could have been a tourist article in the paper.

 

[longcast]

Ocean46,

You hit the nail on the head. Same falls, soakings, "swimming episodes" have occurred to me over the years. I used to laugh about it.

I look back and it was pure stupidity. I was very lucky to not be a morning newspaper article. Rich said it perfectly. Look before you leap! Take the extra second to think out the situation BEFORE it happens. Be safe out there!

Kevin