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This year, we have gone immediately from winter to semi-spring, to summer, back to spring, and now we are moving towards summer again. The glorious time of year that many wait for is the Minnesota fishing opener, and each fisher-person longs for open water so they can get to their favorite lake. This is a very dangerous time of year to be on the water, and unfortunately, Cook County has experienced the first water fatality of the year. Here are some things to consider when you jump in a boat or canoe.
The ice has just gone off the lakes and the water is very cold. It may appear to be fine, but with the water temperature hovering between 35-40 degrees, the amount of time one can spend in the water before becoming hypothermic is decreased substantially. Even if you are wearing a PFD (personal flotation device), you may have only minutes in the water before you begin to lose the function of extremities, and the ability to help yourself.
Fish with a partner and remain in sight of each other. If someone experiences trouble, the other person can hopefully get to them in time and help.
Watch the wind and be aware of your location on any lake. It is easy to get distracted while fishing and looking at the amazing landscape. This is especially true while fishing from a canoe. If you find yourself in turbulent water, remain calm, try to keep the bow pointed into the wind, do not navigate parallel to the waves, even if it takes you in the wrong direction. You can always regroup and get your bearings after the threat of active water has passed.
Have an extra set of clothes, matches, tinder, and some type of sustenance with you no matter if you are going out for the day or for a couple of hours. Keep these items in something that is waterproof so if you need them, they are operational for you. Dry clothes and a fire can be life savers after you have been in the water, not only early in the year, but anytime.
Tell someone where you plan on going. I know everyone wants to keep their secret lakes in the dark, but you can probably find one trustworthy person in your circle who will carry your honey hole to the grave with them, and that person may be the only one who can send rescue teams to your location.
Finally, know your limitations. If you are a novice sailor, don’t go somewhere that will require intermediate or expert knowledge to navigate the waters. Recognize your physical, mental, and emotional margins. If you choose to test them, be prepared to get yourself out of most situations that arise. We have top-notch emergency responder staff in Cook County and there may be a chance that you place a rescuer in harm’s way while trying to save you. Our First Responders, Search and Rescue Staff, and Fire Fighting personnel are all volunteers. They have jobs, families, bills, plans, etc. They place themselves in harm’s way without recompense so that others can go home. Let’s make sure they go home too.
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