Here are a few quick tips to help you stay safe while trying to catch some fish.

• Always wear a lifejacket when you’re out on a boat. If you accidentally fall into the water, you’ll be glad you have it on.
• Wear sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30.
• Bring insect repellent. Mosquitoes love people who are out fishing, so be sure you’re protected against their bites.
• Wear goggles or safety glasses when you’re casting your line. Since fishing lines have sharp hooks at the end, keeping your eyes safe should be a priority.
• Even in calm weather, boats can capsize or turn over.  If the boat turns over, stay with the boat and try to climb onto the boat as high and out of the water as possible.  It is easier for rescuers to see an overturned or capsized boat than a person alone in the water.  Even on warm days the water can be cold.  Climb out of the water onto the boat to keep from getting too cold.
• Be polite, don't litter. The waterways belong to all of us.  We all have to help keep the water clean because clean water is safe water.  Plastic, litter, oil, gas and human sewage cannot only ruin the beauty of our waterways; it can injure or kill aquatic life.