How to stay safe while fishing

More than one million New Zealanders go fishing every year. For many, poor decision making means they get into difficulty around the water.  In 2024, seven deaths were attributed to fishing from land. None of those who lost their life had a lifejacket on.

Risks

• Changing tides and wavs

• Slippery or unstable surfaces

• Changeable weather. Sudden high winds can turn a safe spot dangerous very quickly.

Staying safe

• Always wear a lifejacket.  

• Take at least two forms of communication, such as mobile phone and VHF radio.  

• Check the marine weather forecast including the swell, tide and wind strength and direction  

• Learn water survival skills – if you fall in, you have a higher chance of surviving  

• Get to know the area you will be fishing, learn from locals, listen to advice and obey all warning signs  

• Leave detailed information – tell someone responsible where you are going and when you are due to return.  

• Never fish alone, make sure you always take a buddy with you  

Rock fishing  

Rock fishing is an increasingly popular recreational past-time, but it is also extreme hazardous. Being swept off rocks by large waves is a major hazard.  

Stay alert to the weather conditions

Always check the weather, severe weather warnings, coastal waters forecast and tide predictions before you leave home. Regularly check for weather updates while you're out fishing.  

Remember the following when rock fishing:  

• Think about what your fishing spot might be like in a few hours if the weather and tides change.

• Plan an escape route in case you get washed into the water.

• Always wear a lifejacket  

• Tell someone where you are going.

• Take at least two forms of communication, such as mobile phone and VHF radio.

• Pay particular attention to swell and tide information.  

• Never fish in exposed areas during rough or large seas  

• Spend at least ten minutes observing the sea conditions before approaching the rock ledge  

• Never turn your back on the sea  

• Pay attention to warning signs  

• Never fish from wet rocks where waves and spray have obviously been sweeping over them.  

Know how to float

Unexpectedly entering the water is a common feature of rock fishing. Your chances of survival are significantly higher if you are wearing a lifejacket.  

Without a lifejacket, your floating skills may be the key to staying alive.  

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