Here are important safety tips and notes when fishing at sea, especially if you’re fishing from a boat or from cliffs along the shore, like in Lombok:
1. Check the Weather and Sea Conditions Before You Go
- Use apps or the BMKG (Indonesian Meteorological Agency) website to check:
- Weather forecasts
- Wind strength
- Wave height
- Do not force yourself to go fishing in extreme weather, such as strong winds or waves over 2 meters.
2. Use Marine Safety Gear
- Life jackets are mandatory when fishing from a boat.
- Bring:
- Waterproof flashlight / headlamp (for night fishing)
- Emergency whistle
- Small knife / multitool
- Phone in a waterproof pouch or a communication radio
- Never fish alone, especially in remote locations.
3. Pay Attention to Tides
- Waves and currents can change drastically during high or low tide.
- If you’re fishing on a cliff, avoid standing too close to the edge during high tide — you could be swept away by waves.
4. Understand Ocean Currents
- Some areas have strong underwater currents that can pull in anglers or small boats.
- Avoid fishing too far offshore if you’re inexperienced.
5. Use Safe Fishing Gear
- Use hooks, rods, and lines that match your target fish size. Large hooks can be dangerous if handled carelessly.
- Store sharp hooks and knives safely — never leave them scattered on the boat deck or rocks.
6. Bring Supplies and a First Aid Kit
- Sufficient drinking water & light snacks
- Seasickness medicine (if you’re sensitive)
- First aid kit: band-aids, antiseptic, bandages, ointment for minor wounds
7. Wear Safe Footwear
- Outdoor non-slip shoes or sandals — avoid flip-flops.
- Rocks and cliffs at the beach can be slippery and sharp.
8. Respect the Marine Environment
- Do not throw plastic waste into the sea.
- Don’t damage coral reefs or keep protected species (such as turtles, Napoleon wrasse, etc.).
- Check whether your fishing spot is within a marine conservation area or not.
Additional Notes – Emergency Situations
| Dangerous Situation | Quick Response |
| Fell off the boat | Stay calm, use your life jacket, blow whistle/shout |
| Hook injury | Clean the wound, remove hook carefully, bandage it, seek medical help |
| Swept by waves while on the rocks | Don’t fight the current, float, call for help |
