Winter time is fast approaching and thats when I'm out either hunting or chasing blue cats pretty hard. Winter time fishing will produce a lot of trophy size blues but it is also a dangerous time to be out on the water. The air and water temps will be dropping to dangerous levels that can kill quickly. Thought I would start a thread where everyone can add to the list things that you do to be safe and live to fish/hunt another day.

1. Carry something to start a fire with, lighter, road flares etc... anything that you can quickly start a fire on the bank with if you get soaked. hypothermia will shut you down quicker than you think.

2. Go slower than normal in the wintertime being extra careful to not hit anything while moving or falling out of the boat while anchored.

3. Dress appropriately, face mask, gloves, wind proof clothing etc...

4, Have a life vest for everyone on the boat and use them when the boat moving.

Thats a start, everyone feel free to add to the list. Something you post here may save a fellow fishermans life this winter .

Wear I life vest while throwing a castnet when your on a boat especially when alone!!!!

Good thread--

Extra dry clothes just in case--

Dry change of clothes in case you do go in. Apple flavored brandy keeps you warm on those cold days too.

Good'Un.

Bring some Hot fluids like soup, Tea etc.
Catchin a Big'ole 50lb. Toad will take care of those chill's too!

Dry clothes
Waterproof matches and a wind proof lighter
Extra towels


Put your cell phone in a phone bag available where the kayaking stuff at academy is. Wear it around your neck. It'll protect your phone and if you go over may save your bacon


Last thing is the most simple. Tell someone where you're going and when you plan to be back.
.

Thats one of me and Sam's rules, we do not fish alone in the winter. Gotta watch the deck to when it freezes over throwing for shad.
Good tips everyone .

Yep you know it's time for the bigguns when your net freezes before you get it back in the water!!!'

Space blankets are great for emergencies. Takes uo little space in boat, keeps heat in. Can be a lifesaver if your a ways from tge ramp.

+ 1 on this ,if your not missed no one will look for you!

extra battery in your boat..(oh one that's charged lol) trust me I know

Dont forget the TP!

fried chicken

Strobe light on your life jacket ,if you had to spend to anytime in the water at night, You would want someone to see you ASAP!!!

Tom ,do not go alone...call me I will go with ya.
Chuck ,do not get to warm wirh the Brandy.Too much of that type of beverage you might take a unwanted swim.
Dave, ready for some of that Fried Chicken
Kevin, I am ready to warm up with some Toads .
Everyone stay safe on the water.

Just for sipping Michael.


Gives you that nice false warmth.