How to Safely Bring a Fish Aboard in a Small Open Boat
Bringing a fish aboard a small open boat can be one of the most dangerous moments of the trip — especially when fishing alone or in rough conditions. Large fish, sharp hooks, and sudden movement can easily lead to injury or even capsize if you’re not prepared.
This guide covers safe, proven methods for landing fish from small fishing boats, dinghies, and open RIBs.
1. Stay Seated and Keep the Boat Balanced
In a small boat, stability comes first.
- Stay seated or low when landing a fish
- Avoid leaning over the gunwale
- Keep your weight centred
- If fishing with others, warn them before lifting the fish aboard
Standing suddenly or leaning too far over one side is a common cause of boats tipping.
2. Decide Beforehand How You’ll Land the Fish
Before the fish is alongside, decide:
- Net it (best for most fish)
- Gaff it (only for fish you intend to keep)
- Hand-line it (only for small, calm fish)
Trying to improvise at the last second is when accidents happen.
3. Use a Landing Net Whenever Possible
A large, soft-mesh landing net is the safest option for most species.
Tips:
- Lead the fish head-first into the net
- Keep the net low in the water
- Lift smoothly — don’t jerk
Avoid lifting big fish vertically by the net handle alone; support it if needed.
4. Be Careful With Gaffs
A gaff should only be used when:
- The fish is legal size
- You plan to keep it
- You are confident and stable
Safety tips:
- Gaff the fish cleanly in one movement
- Keep hands clear of the hook and line
- Never swing a fish into the boat wildly
A missed gaff can hook you, your boat, or your outboard.
5. Watch Out for Hooks and Thrashing Fish
Once aboard, fish often thrash violently.
- Keep fish low in the boat
- Avoid bringing them near your face
- Be aware of treble hooks and spines
- Use pliers or a fish grip if needed
Many injuries happen after the fish is already in the boat.
6. Control the Fish Immediately
As soon as the fish is aboard:
- Dispatch it quickly if keeping it
- Or control it firmly before unhooking
- Never leave a live fish loose on the deck
A flapping fish can:
- Hook you
- Damage gear
- Cause you to lose balance
7. Fishing Alone? Take Extra Care
Solo anglers should be extra cautious.
- Keep the rod secured
- Never overreach
- Consider releasing large fish without bringing them aboard
- Use a net with a long handle
If conditions worsen, losing a fish is better than risking your safety.
8. Rough Weather: Know When Not to Lift the Fish
If the sea is rough:
- Keep the fish in the water
- Time lifts between waves
- Consider cutting the line if necessary
No fish is worth going overboard for.
Key Safety Takeaway
In a small open boat, landing the fish is often more dangerous than catching it.
Plan ahead, stay low, keep balanced, and always put safety before the catch
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