COLUMBUS, OH -- Waterfowl hunters and anglers are encouraged to boat safely this fall as they enjoy outdoor recreation on the states waterways, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
While its a great time to be outdoors, safety needs to remain a priority while hunting, fishing or boating, said Jeff Hoedt, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft.
Fall perch fishing remains excellent on Lake Erie. Good fishing opportunities are still enjoyed during October on some of the states other inland lakes and rivers.
More than 35,000 hunters are expected to participate in this years duck and goose hunting seasons that begin October 20 in northern Ohio above U.S. Route 30 and on October 27 elsewhere in the state.
Following are some fall boating safety tips that should be remembered:
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Stay within the posted weight capacity limits and do not overload your boat with passengers and gear.
- Make sure boats are properly loaded and balanced before leaving shore.
- Toss duck decoys from the boat when preparing to hunt waterfowl. Use a pole and hook to safely retrieve decoys.
- Stay seated or kneel when shooting from a boat. Never stand up in a boat.
- Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages.
- Dress properly to protect against hypothermia in case you become wet. Clothing such as polypropylene, wool and synthetic fleece are the best to wear while boating during the fall.
- Know the days weather forecast and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
- Keep in mind many inland lake levels are being drawn down to their winter pool depth, leaving water levels several feet below normal.
- File a float plan with someone who can act responsibly should problems arise.
- Be prepared for an emergency. Many boating, hunting and fishing accidents can be minimized if you are prepared for an emergency. This includes being able to provide assistance to fellow boaters should a problem occur.
For Further Information Contact:
John Wisse, ODNR Division of Watercraft
(614) 265-6695
-or-
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6882