SAFETY INFORMATION
PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO READ THIS THOROUGHLY
Our aim is to promote safety whilst out on the water so please
take time to read the information thoroughly.
Your own judgment and common sense are the most important thing to remember.
If it looks “iffy” then it probably is, DO NOT go out!
WEAR YOUR P.F.D AT ALL TIMES
If you don't have it with you, then don't go on the water!
Be aware of local hazards, the weather, tides and currents.
Plan your trip with these in mind.
Make a Float Plan
Have contacts on shore, let them know when you are going out, where you are going and the time you expect to get back.
Join the CG66 Scheme if you haven't already and make sure to update your details with them if you move home or swap kayaks. There's a link to them from our home page.
Make sure that your contacts have the nessesary knowledge and phone numbers to ring just in case.
Make sure you let your contacts know when you are safely off the water.
YOUR KAYAK
Check your Kayak from time to time for damage. Look for pin
holes in the scupper hole joints. Also check any deep scratches/gouges from
landing on beaches.
Check that the drain plug is intact and screwed down, it's very easy to drain
your 'yak' then leave it open to dry out a while then forget to replace/screw
down the cover in the excitement of getting out for a trip on the water.
Keep your Kayak stored inside your garage, hut, wrapped up or boxed to prevent
damage from UV rays. You can now buy "kayak covers" for around £150
in the UK that are UV resistant which may be good for those without storage.
EQUIPMENT
P.F.D (buoyancy aid)
Paddle. Paddle leash (do NOT use if/when surfing)
Anchor
First Aid Kit. (waterproof)
Small Sharp Knife Attached to your pfd.
G.P.S. (fish finder)
Compass
Food and Drink
Handheld smoke ( Orange position marker )
V.H.F. Radio ( Check charge levels before trip )
Mobile Phone ( Check charge levels before trip )
Waterproof Torch (Strong beam check before trip )
Signaling mirror (a C.D is a great substitute for a mirror)
Pack of Mini Flares
Ink Spot Marker
Ensure all batteries, bulbs etc are fully working/charged before every trip.
A throw/tow rope is always a good thing to have in your hull
in case a paddler gets injured.
A bow line is also another one of those small but essential items for tying
off to structures in order to fish or get off and stretch your legs!
CLOTHING
Summer
A 3mm 'shorty' wet suit is a good idea for Summer fishing,
it keeps you warm enough should you enter the water and it's flexible enough
for ease of paddling. A Cag is a good addition to keep the wind off you.
A pair of neoprene shoes or diving boots are great and keep your feet from
getting cold as well as protecting them from stones etc. A 5/3mm full wetsuit
should be kept in your vehicle just in case it gets too cold or turns nasty
though. It's not very often we have hot summer days, especially out at sea!
Winter
A 5/3mm full Wet Suit combined with a dry cag will suit but if you are going
to encounter some really cold weather, then a full dry suit is recommended.
Here's a list of useful items of clothing:
Wetsuit/Drysuit.
Breathable Cag (Water/Windproof top)
Moisture Wicking Vest.
Neoprene Boots
Hat
Gloves/paddling mitts
It is a good idea to take with you, a spare set of clothing and a towel, there is nothing worse than driving home after a day out, in wet clothes and getting your ear bent for wetting the drivers seat :(
If you think of anything else you feel should be added to this article then e-mail andy or ray @kayakfishinguk.net
Thankyou