COLUMBUS, OH - Waterfowl hunters and anglers are reminded to boat safely this fall as they enjoy hunting and fishing recreation on the states waterways, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
Safety and preparedness need to remain a priority while hunting, fishing and boating, said Ken Alvey, acting chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft.
Fall perch fishing remains very good on Lake Erie. Good fishing opportunities are still enjoyed during October when fall releases of rainbow trout occur at selected inland lakes during the month. The trout releases will be made October 16-25 in 25 waterways across the state.
More than 35,000 hunters are expected to again participate in this years duck and goose hunting seasons that open October 19 in the North Zone above U.S. Route 30 and October 26 elsewhere in Ohio. Some hunters who pursue other wild game such as squirrels and white-tailed deer also use a boat for transportation to their hunting locations.
Other recreational boaters who are not active in hunting and fishing enjoy autumn to view Ohios brilliant fall colors and also need to keep boating safety as a priority in their activities.
Here are some fall boating safety tips from the ODNR that should be followed:
- Properly wear a U.S. Coast Guard life jacket at all times when in a boat.
- Make sure boats are properly loaded and balanced before leaving the shoreline.
- Stay within the posted weight capacity limits and do not overload your boat with passengers and gear.
- Stay seated or kneel when shooting from a boat. Never stand up in a boat.
- Toss waterfowl decoys from the boat when preparing to hunt and use a pole and hook to safely retrieve decoys from the water.
- Dress properly to protect against hypothermia in case you become wet. Clothing such as polypropylene, wool and synthetic fleece, are best to wear while boating during the fall.
- Keep in mind that some 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 and carry a communications device such as a portable cell phone, or two-way radio. Be able to render assistance to others should an emergency occur.
- Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages.
- Know the days weather forecast and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
Additional information about Ohios fall color viewing, boating, hunting and fishing opportunities can be obtained by visiting the ODNR web page at Ohiodnr.com/