BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Temperatures and snow are falling across much of the state. Idaho Fish and Game encourages anglers and waterfowl hunters to take precautions and practice boating safety this winter.
According to a recent news release, nearly every year, there is a boating accident in Idaho involving duck hunters or winter anglers. With water temperatures just above freezing, these accidents can result in a fatality. In the past 10 years, nearly 67 percent of the fatal boating accidents in Idaho were the result of victims falling into the water from small boats.
The most common mistake waterfowl hunters make while operating a boat is overloading the vessel. All watercraft under 20 feet in length constructed after Nov. 1, 1972, have a capacity plate permanently affixed in a location visible to the operator while the boat is underway.
The plate lists the maximum horsepower, maximum number of persons and maximum weight capacity, including all people, dogs and gear. It is easy to exceed the weight capacity without knowing it after strapping on an outboard motor and adding hunters, dogs and hunting gear.
Be sure to follow all of Idaho's boating laws and practice these safety measures the next time you are out on the water:
- Always wear life jackets while on the water, especially during transit or when the weather gets rough. Small boats with limited visibility and high winds can be hazardous. Idaho boating laws require vessels to have at least one properly sized life jacket for each person on board. Remember, life jackets only work if they are worn.
- You must have a running light if you run a motorized boat in the dark or during periods of restricted visibility, such as fog or heavy rain.
- Be prepared for changes in the weather, and dress accordingly.
- Give yourself plenty of time to jump shoot or hunt over decoys when floating in a section of a river. An upstream wind can slow your progress, even in a flowing river.
- Leave the alcohol at home. Alcohol makes a person more susceptible to hypothermia, interferes with their ability to swim and impedes quick decision making in an accident.
- Do not be afraid to cancel the trip if the weather turns bad.
Waterfowl hunting is a great way to get outdoors during the fall and winter. Good preparation and following basic guidelines can ensure the outing is safe.
Be sure to renew your annual invasive species sticker if you plan to boat after Jan. 1.
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