right i have roof bars
dry cag and bottoms
life jacket
rods
paddle
and most important of all! a kayak
so does anyone fancy going out sunday?
o i aint got a fishfinder yet.
[glow=red,2,300]PLEASE READ THIS[/glow]
The list below has been put together after consultation with and approved by the RNLI. It is the list the RNLI are putting into their SOT and paddling policy document. Those that have not been involved in a rescue, which is most, will find a number of items surprising. But then when do you plan to be rescued. However, the number of Kayak rescues and callouts has increased significantly over the last 4 years; this is reflected in the RNLI’s concern and will to make the sport as safe as possible.
The biggest enemy to safety is the “it will not happen to me” attitude. I amongst others have triggered a rescue/call out. It does happen and it has every chance of being you. Make sure you live to tell the tale.
At the moment kayak fisherman are held in very high regard by the rescue agencies. That is a major compliment it is important that we keep it that way. We do not want to become the easy target for legislation.
Despite all the gear and gizmos it is worth remebering that all the kit in the world can never replace your main safety item. You will find it stored in waterproof container between your ears. Never be afraid to say “NO”.
In order to justify some of the items I have separated out a selection and explained them in more detail below the kit lists. PM me if you need further explanation or if you have any additional ideas. There are different versions of items particularly Flares, the choice is yours. There are other items that can be also added eg: Signal Mirrors and Air Horns but below is considered “appropriate”.
The list is divided into 3 sections. The first is the standard list for warm weather daylight fishing. If you then take up night fishing or cold weather paddling you should add the items from those lists.
A printable version of the list will be available on the main website.
SUMMER DAYLIGHT TRIP
Personal Flotation Device (PFD) with Whistle and Rescue Light attached
Paddle Plan and Small Chart
Waterproof Watch
Small Waterproof Grab Bag/Box to store car keys and wallet.
Anchor with 1m of chain (Only for those accomplished in anchoring)
VHF Marine Handheld Radio (fully charged)
Emergency blunt nosed knife attached to PFD
Drysuit/Cag Combo/Wetsuit suited to the conditions
Hi Vis Vest for use in busy water ways (Orange is best for daylight use)
Flares (personal day/night flare and an inshore pack is a popular mix)
Compass
Mobile Phone (charged)
Paddle Leash
Personal Leash/Tow line (Used for solo trips/night trips and anchoring in strong tides)
Spare Paddle (cheap 2 piece stored in hatch)
Basic First Aid Kit
Brimmed/Peaked Hat ( Hi Vis can be useful in busy water ways.)
Sunglasses/Sun Cream
Drink and Snack
ADDITIONAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT FOR COLD WEATHER DAYLIGHT TRIP
Drysuit only recommended for cold water paddling
Warm Clothing (min 3 layers plus a base layer)
Dry Bag (with additional clothing/food and drink)
Hot Drink and High Energy Food
Warm Hat and Neck Warmer/Balaclava to cover ears (fleece/yushanka)
Neoprene Gloves/Mitts
Windproof Matches/Lighter
Survival Bag (not a silver blanket)
Waterproof Hooded Cag/Jacket (oversize can fit over Drysuit)
ADDITIONAL SAFETY EQUIPMENT NIGHT TRIP
360 Degree White Navigation Light (Visible to 2 miles)
GPS (recommended as complimentary equipment for all trips)
Head Torch (with spare batteries)
Main Battery fully charged, to power GPS and Navigation Light (enough power for trip)
HI Vis (SOLAS) tape on outer clothing