Australian Government Bureau of Meteorology

 
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Don't cast aside safety this Easter

02/04/2015

The Bureau of Meteorology is reminding people going rock fishing to take safety seriously, as autumn is the peak season for hazardous surf and combines with the high tides from Easter’s full moon.

National Marine Weather Services Manager, Neal Moodie, said checking the Bureau of Meteorology’s website for the latest conditions is critical for rock fishing safety.

“Hazardous surf and high tides are two elements that result in rock fishing fatalities along the Australian coastline,” Mr Moodie said.

“Conditions on the water can change quickly and with the variable nature of wind strength and wave height, rock fishing can quickly become dangerous.

“The Bureau’s marine forecasts include details of wave, wind and tide conditions around Australia, and it is important that people understand the water conditions and change their rock fishing plans to avoid taking unnecessary risks.

“The 2014 National Coastal Safety Report, compiled by Surf Life Saving Australia, showed that 12 rock fishing fatalities were recorded in Australia last year.”

Mr Moodie said rock fishers should always take time to observe the tide, wave and wind conditions before casting their fishing line, and remain vigilant and prepared for changing wave conditions as the tide rises.

  • CHECK when high tide is – High tide can cover your rock fishing spot with water. Rising tides and high tides make waves break onto rock fishing locations.
  • CHECK for large waves – A large sea state and/or swell waves can be hazardous.
  • CHECK for strong winds – Strong winds can create hazardous waves or push you off wet, slippery rocks.

“I encourage people to enjoy our coastlines this Easter, but urge them to ensure they check the Bureau’s website for the latest forecast and warnings in order to do so safely,” Mr Moodie said.

Rock fishing safety information is available in multiple languages (Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean) on the Bureau's rock fishing weather safety webpage.

For the latest forecast and warnings visit the Bureau’s website at www.bom.gov.au