Taking The Dog Fishing

So, your dog likes to go fishing? Mine, too. Actually, all the dogs I’ve owned have quickly adapted to being on a boat, and (at least, as far as I can tell) greatly enjoy fishing trips out onto the bay. There are, however, a few important variables to keep in mind that don’t necessarily crop up when you’re fishing with humans.

Issue number-one: some dogs will jump right out of the boat. True, good training will prevent this problem and it usually isn’t an issue with a hunting dog that’s been taught to sit, heel, and lay still on command. But when the dog is still a pup or if it’s a family pet that isn’t necessarily so well trained, don’t simply assume that it won’t take a flying leap over the side. You may want to leash it, and attach the leash to a centered point on the boat that won’t allow the dog to make that jump. Whatever you do, don’t leash the dog then attach the leash to a bowrail, cleat, or other item that gives it enough head to jump overboard, but still remain tied to the boat.

Another danger to look out for is bait. Yes, bait. Most dogs won’t hesitate to scarf down a pile of cut fish or squid. This is bad enough if your pet cleans off the bait table, but can be absolutely disastrous if you leave bait hanging on a hook. On the flip side of the equation, while a fishing trip may not be the time for an impromptu meal, it’s definitely time for plenty of water. Just as people can become dehydrated in the sunny saltwater environment, dogs can also have the moisture sapped right out of them. Whenever a dog is on your boat be sure it gets water often.

Lots of water naturally leads to a need for the dog to relieve itself. There’s no simple solution here, because in many cases you won’t be able to pull up on a beach every couple of hours and walk the dog. Different people may accept this to varying degrees, but in my experience, it’s best to simply let the dog “go” right on the deck without punishing it or getting an attitude. Then just pull out the raw water washdown, and sluice it all away.

Finally, remember that the fiberglass deck which is so easy to wash down can also be a skating rink for a dog. Many can’t keep a footing on fiberglass, but you can easily solve this problem by bringing a small piece of old carpet or a doormat aboard. Lay it on the deck, show it to the dog, from then on it’ll likely stick to it as much as he or she can when the boat’s in motion.

And at the end of your day when you’re cleaning those fish, remember, Fido would love to get a tidbit, too!

Lenny Rudow