Image courtesy Recfishwest

More rough conditions off our coast

Royal Life Saving Society WA is again warning the fishing community to be aware of the dangers posed by large swells which are expected at the weekend.

In Perth swells are predicted to peak around 5 metres on Saturday, with 35 knot winds. In the South-West on Saturday Margaret River swells will reach 7 metres with 40 knot winds, while Albany’s expecting 6m swells with 40 knot winds. In the Mid-West Geraldton swells will reach 6m on Saturday with 30 knot winds (55-75km/h)

Over the past 10 years 67 people have lost their lives in fishing related drownings across WA, with 20 of these related specifically to rock fishing. Just last month a 30 year old man died, after being swept from rocks while fishing at Albany’s notorious Salmon Holes.

Royal Life Saving Society WA’s Senior Manager Community Health, Lauren Nimmo says “On average 7 people lose their lives in fishing related drownings each year in WA. Almost all of these occurred in poor weather conditions and large, unpredictable swells, causing people to get swept off rocks or boats to capsize. We’d encourage West Australians to recognise that fishing is a dangerous sport and they must take all the necessary safety precautions.”

Royal Life Saving recommends that all those involved in fishing choose the safest possible location to do so, take time to observe the conditions before getting near the water, always fish with others, always wear a lifejacket and carry a float and line so you are prepared to assist anyone who is washed into the water.

Ms Nimmo says “Conditions like those expected across the weekend are potentially deadly. No fish is worth dying for so we would encourage people to postpone their fishing plans if possible, and at the very least choose the safest possible location.”

More details about fishing safety are available at the Royal Life Saving Society website www.lifesavingwa.com.au.

For updated information on ocean swells and wind conditions click the link below.