Fishing is one of the most satisfying hobbies. A form of connection with the sea and marine environment. Whether fishing from shore or from a boat, all modalities must follow a series of safety guidelines . Here we compile some recommendations for those who fish in the sea with kayak, a very widespread activity that gains followers every day corporate days out.
The kayak is a boat
The first thing we must take into account when taking the kayak and setting out to sea is that we are on a vessel that for legal purposes is governed by the provisions of the International Regulation to Prevent Collisions at Sea, the RIPA .
Kayaks are subject to navigation rules, markings and lights , and every sailor must, even if they do not have a skipper’s title, minimally know these rules.
Be seen and be seen
That when you buy a kayak the color range stands out for its striking colors (yellow and red, especially) is no coincidence. They are the colors that make the greatest contrast with the sea water. These low boats are barely visible, so it is important that you show up, with a brightly colored kayak and bright clothing .
Fishing in the kayak does not mean forgetting the world. You must maintain constant vigilance , especially if you are in maritime traffic areas or port areas.
5 short blasts
The way large ships warn that your presence on board the kayak compromises maritime safety is an acoustic signal that consists of five or more short blasts emitted by the ship’s whistle. It means that he does not understand your maneuver , perhaps because you have not noticed his presence. In this case act clearly. Set a course to a point and stick to it.
Sail at night
Not all boats and people can navigate at night. For example, in 2002 a decree was enacted prohibiting night navigation by jet skis. Kayaks are not expressly prohibited for night navigation, it depends on the qualifications of the person operating it. At least the title of Basic Navigation Pattern , PNB, with which you learn to differentiate and interpret navigation lights.
It is advisable not to navigate at night with a kayak , since the lack of visibility and metal elements on the boat make it invisible to other boats.
If you are going to sail at night, carry a flashlight or lantern that emits a white light . You must show it in the presence of any other vessel, to alert them of your situation. Also if you are anchored.
Anchor with enough rope
The seafaring custom is to anchor in areas sheltered from the wind and current. However, aboard a kayak for the purpose of fishing, anchoring will be in the most convenient place for fishing.
In any case, it is advisable to know how deep the water is and drop the anchor with enough chain: between 3 and 4 times the depth of the place.
You do not have priority in channels
Vessels smaller than 20 meters, including kayaks (of course), have the obligation not to impede the transit of a boat that can only navigate safely within a canal . That is why it is best to avoid canals and maritime traffic. A kayak has a minimum draft that will allow you to navigate where others cannot, and perhaps catch better specimens.
Check the weather
It is essential that before going to sea to spend a day of fishing in your kayak you check the weather forecast. Be aware of your own strength and consider the state of the wind , especially if it is coming from land.
Always communicated
Kayaking is usually close to the coast and within the range of mobile devices . But phones can fail. It is advisable that you carry one in a waterproof bag, being aware that cliffs, for example, produce shadows in the cover that can leave you incommunicado. The alternative is to carry a portable VHF , which you can buy for just over €100.