As we enter the winter season many keen sea anglers will be targetting the specimen fish that lurk within the waters off the North Devon Coast. Recent events highlighted the dangers that can be faced when fishing from this wild and rugged coast. The angler involved expressed his sincere thanks to the RNLI who undoubtedly saved him from a watery grave. Following on from this I was pleased to work with the local RNLI to promote the wearing of lifejackets and buoyancy aids.

On Saturday, November 26th, Pauline and I visited Appledore Lifeboat Station where my own lifejacket and our sons lifejacket were given a safety inspection. Both jackets failed to pass the criteria as both had inflation mechanisms that were past their use by date. New parts were promptly ordered from Summerlands Tackle at Westward Ho! Of the sixteen lifejackets presented for inspection 50% failed due to mostly minor defects. It has to be remembered that this vital equipment could save your life and failure at a critical moment could be as catastrophic as the brakes failing while descending a steep hill!

Many thanks to Owen Atkinson, David Inwood and Simon McCarthy  for their expertise, advice and a fascinating insight into the valuable work undertaken by the RNLI.

RNLI Education Volunteer Matt Cox offered useful advise for anglers and other water users and discussed the merits of modern lightweight bouyancy aids.

The RNLI carry out many rescues throughout the year and undoubtedly encounter many who are Ill-informed about the risks that are ever-present at the waters edge. I know that many believe that they will get away with it and that nothing will happen to them. On average I believe around ten anglers drown each year making angling a statistically dangerous sport.

The key messages to anglers are :-

Always wear a life jacket when fishing from shore or boat

Modern Automatic lifejackets are lightweight and comfortable. Those who wear them often forget they’re wearing them. Remember to regularly check and service your lifejacket inline with the manufacturers recommendations.

Always carry a means of calling for help on your person. 

Whicever device you choose to call for help, you must be able to reach it Easily in an emergency. Consider taking a mobile phone with the Safe Trx app.

Always check the weather forecast and tide times

Anglers should check the tide times and predicted swell forecast. This is particularly important for shore anglers to reduce the risk of being swept away or cut off by the tide.

Tell someone else where you’re going and when you’ll be back

They can raise the alarm with the coastguard by calling 999 or 112 if yiu are overdue.

It is reassuring to know that the coastguard are there to work with the RNLI to rescue those who are in difficulty and do so without judging those they rescue. Chatting with those at the lifeboat station it is very apparent how passionate and dedicated they are to ensuring the safety of those who interact with the sea for recreational reasons or to earn their livelihoods.