Fishing is a great sport and a way of life. Unfortunately, it is also something of a hazard to your health. There is a wealth of information on the internet about how dangerous fishing can be, and how you should never go fishing if you have a heart condition, diabetes or high blood pressure. However, many people are unaware of the dangers posed by fishing, or simply ignore them thinking their heart is the only organ that matters. The truth is that your body is a whole lot more susceptible to damage from fishing than you might think, especially if you are not careful. Here are just a few of the ways that fishing can hurt you. For more information on the dangers, check out these sites:
Walking The Dog
Some people think that the only harm that can come from fishing is from getting wet. However, your pet dog also poses a threat to your health while you are fishing. Chances are you walk your dog while you fish, especially if you enjoy the outdoors. The activity is healthy in theory, combining both your bodies’ activity and mind’s focus away from the hassle of the day-to-day world. However, it can also be extremely stressful for both of you, particularly if you have never done it before or if it’s been a while since you last walked your dog. If you are worried about how long it’s been since you last did it, you can make a point to do it more often; otherwise, you’ll have to adjust your fishing gear to reduce the stress on your pet’s neck.
Saltwater Fishing
Whether you are fishing off a dock, pier or beach, you are always going to be in the presence of saltwater. This is certainly not a problem itself, but being around all that salt can cause damage. The great news is that you can greatly reduce the risk of developing a saltwater overload by knowing when to stop. If you are going to stay within reasonable limits, you can consume only what you catch. In other words, you’re not going to eat the whole fish. Otherwise, you’ll end up either with dangerously high blood pressure or kidney problems. It’s also a good idea to drink lots of fresh water while on a saltwater fishing trip. Staying hydrated will keep you healthier than ever and allow you to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Deep-water Fishing
If you’re going to be out in the ocean fishing, especially if it’s deeper than a few feet, there is still a risk that you’ll hurt yourself. The great news is that there are ways to greatly reduce that risk. First of all, always wear a wetsuit when fishing in the water. This will keep you warmer than the water around you, particularly if it’s cold out, as well as provide some buoyancy. Second, make sure you have your fishing license and permit in hand before you go out on the water. Third, when you get in the boat, sit in the stern. This will keep you further away from the spinning rod and any potential mishaps that it might cause. Fourth, make sure you always land your catch promptly. This will help avoid any injuries to your fingers or toes, or other parts of your body that might get tangled up in the fishing line. Fifth, be careful around sharks and other large fish. These animals can cause serious injuries if they bite, and it’s a good idea to avoid feeding them if you want to remain healthy. Sixth, make sure to wear protective headgear whenever you are in the water, whether or not you are fishing. This will protect you from falling fish parts as well as injuries caused by boat propellers and other objects that could cause you harm.
Shark Bite/Attacks
Besides the obvious risk of getting bitten by a shark, there is also the risk of an attack. If you are going to be in open waters, chances are you will come across some large predator fish, especially if it’s a tiger shark or great white shark. These animals are always on the hunt for their next meal, and they will take advantage of your presence in their environment, whether you are fishing or swimming or just out for a walk.
These fish are always hungry, and they will take you down if they catch you. The only way to avoid getting eaten is to either kill them with a sharp stick or a pole, or to play dead. The former is certainly the safer option, though it requires some courage. The latter is simply a case of playing dead, and it is a rather passive defense. However, playing dead is always a better option than fighting for your life, no matter what kind of predator you are facing. Not to mention that if you are carrying fish, it’s already cooked for you; therefore, you don’t have to worry about raw fish toxins getting into your system. Additionally, playing dead might attract a predator’s attention away from you, saving you from an otherwise fatal bite.
Just like with other forms of recreation, fishing can be both fun and healthy, but only if you know what you are doing and how much of it you are allowed to do. For some people, fishing might be a whole lot more than fun; it could be a way of life. However, if you are not careful, it could also be a source of great pain and suffering. Just because your friends think it’s funny to taunt a fish does not mean that they are helping you avoid getting hurt. On the contrary, it could be making the situation worse. Keep your heart and mind open to new experiences, but also make sure that your personal safety comes first. At the end of the day, only you know what is best for you and your own heart.