Small Fishing Boat Safety Tips

The safety basics

Basic boat safety is pretty commonly known, but many people don't realize that small fishing boats have their own set of rules. If you're navigating or riding in a jon boat, mini bass boat, small pontoon boat, or something of similar size, there are a few things of which you should stay aware.

First of all, the small size of your boat is something you need to keep in mind. Because these boats don't have much square footage, there isn't much of the boat touching the water. So balance is important. Keep your center of gravity low, and try to keep weight centered on the boat. Don't have everyone sit on the same side, and when you move from one area of the boat to the other, make sure to stay low to the ground so that you don't over-balance the boat. Capsizing is less of a problem with jon boats, which have flat bottoms and thus more area of the boat touching the water, but because they're typically small it's still definitely a concern! On a boat, off a boat While you're on the boat, staying centered is key. When you're getting in and out, the same rules apply. Remember that getting in and out of the boat puts unexpected weight onto one side, so other passengers should stay opposite the person who is moving, and help create balance. Just one person should get in and out of the boat at a time.

Just because your boat is small...

... doesn't mean you shouldn't make room for the necessities! No matter how small your boat is, remember that you're still navigating potentially deep water, and safety is first and foremost. Keep a safety kit on hand with flashlights, first aid materials, and basic tools. Remember that every passenger must wear a lifejacket, and that the same rules of water etiquette apply to you that apply to larger boats. You're sharing the water with many other boaters, and your attention to safety is for you as well as for them. So be aware of your surroundings and stay prepared for any incidents that might arise by equipping your boat with lights, communication equipment, and other basics of the water.