Minnesota fishing opener

By
Dave G.
– April 28, 2005Posted in: Fish & Hunt

Safety tips for fishing opener

For many Minnesotans, the opening of the inland fishing season on May 14 also marks the beginning of a new boating season. For a safe start, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recommends a pre-launch review of safety equipment and regulations.

Minnesota law requires a wearable personal flotation device for each person on any boat. For some boats there are requirements for lighting, horns, a fire extinguisher and other equipment. Regulations and safety recommendations are listed in the Minnesota Boating Guide, available online at www.dnr.state.mn.us or by calling toll free 1-888-MINNDNR (646-6367).

“Take a few minutes to think about safety as you are preparing your boat and fishing equipment,” said Tim Smalley, boat and water safety specialist for the Minnesota DNR. “It’s a small investment of time that could save a life.”

Last year, 15 people were killed in boating accidents, down from 17 deaths in 2004. Boating deaths in 2003 totaled 30, the highest number of boaters killed since 1985 when 31 Minnesota boaters died.

LIFE PRESERVERS

Minnesota law requires a U.S. Coast Guard approved “Type I, II, III or V” wearable personal flotation device, more commonly known as a life jacket, life vest, or personal flotation device for each person on any boat. Also required is a flotation device that can be thrown (Type IV) on boats 16 feet or longer.

“Life jackets also have to be the correct size for the person they are intended,” said Smalley. “In other words, you can’t have a size large life vest for a small child and expect it to pass muster for the law or safety.”

This year, the Minnesota Legislature is considering a law that would require children under 10 to wear a life jacket under most circumstances while boating in the state. Boaters should check newspapers or the DNR Web site for more information.

“Lack of the correct number, type and size of life jackets is the second most common boating law ticket issued – right behind expired boat registrations,” Smalley said. “Not wearing a life jacket is the number one reason people die in boating accidents.”

U.S. Coast Guard approved inflatable life vests or foam vests with a mesh material at the shoulder area are comfortable even on the hottest Minnesota summer day. “You don’t have to look like an orange ‘May West’ festooned geek anymore, either,” Smalley said. “The new life jackets are stylish, comfortable and easy to wear.”

Adults, while not required to wear flotation devices on boats, are required to wear flotation devices on personal watercraft such as Jet Skis, Wave Runners, and Sea Doos.

NAVIGATION LIGHTS

Boats under power after sunset and before sunrise must be illuminated by red and green bow lights and a white stern light. Motorboats at anchor or drifting are required to be illuminated by the white stern light.

All lights should be operational and placed so they aren’t blocked by passengers or equipment such as mounted trolling motors or canopies on pontoon boats.

“One common problem with many clamp-on flashlight-battery operated stern lights is that the mounting pole is too short,” said Smalley. “The white stern light is legally required to be visible from 360 degrees around the boat and not be blocked by people, the motor, etc. If people can’t see you at night, you may get hit.”

FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Many motorboats are required to carry a fire extinguisher that carries the seal of approval by the U.S. Coast Guard. “Unfortunately, many extinguisher cartons are poorly marked,” said Smalley “You might have to open the box to check the extinguisher label itself.”

HORN OR WHISTLE

Boats 16-feet or longer must carry a hand- or power-operated whistle or horn capable of producing a sound for at least two seconds that can be heard for at least one mile.

SPARE PARTS AND TOOLS

Although not a legal requirement, tools and spare parts like spark plugs and shear pins (if your motor uses them) are a good idea. “And don’t forget to put the drain plug in before you launch,” Smalley warned.

CELL PHONE OR MARINE RADIO

Many areas of Minnesota have cell phone coverage. If people have one they should bring it along in case of emergencies.

NO ALCOHOL

Errors in judgment brought on by alcohol can cause trouble long before a person reaches the level of legal intoxication. “Also, it gets expensive if you are caught operating your boat under the influence,” Smalley said. “Lawyer fees, fines, civil penalties and a conviction for boating while intoxicated goes on your auto driver’s license and may also effect your insurance rates.”

“With precautions for safety, boating can be safe and fun for fishing or just cruising the lake, Smalley said. “Just a few minutes of time and the proper precautions can make a big difference in preventing tragedies on the water.”


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    • Life Jackets  The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR)...

About Dave G.

Co-Founder, LakePlace.com