Hi Everyone,
Today, I found some helpful information when doing research online regarding fishing on boats during the Covid19 pandemic.
And by the way, you are absolutely not obligated to read any of my updates at all.
I figured while my spouse and I prepare our own boat and gear I’d try to be helpful to others and share the information that I do find in case it helps you.
If you want to do your own research by all means go ahead.
Many of you are getting pretty annoyed with trying to find the right information as the updates are constantly changing.
Personally I’d rather be as informed as possible, avoid any potential fines so that I can continue to enjoy my favourite hobby.
So thanks for reading.
OFAH posted their FAQs today which you can read here: https://www.ofah.org/covid19/faq/
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Is fishing on a boat a Safe Social Distancing Activity?
The short answer is yes, but the long answer is a bit more involved.
First and foremost, all the rules given by the Province of Ontario apply:
· You need to limit the people aboard your boat, please contact the MNR at 1-800-667-1940 if you have questions or need clarifications.
· The Minister in charge of Natural Resources and Forestry is Hon. John Yakabuski see link here: https://www.ola.org/en/members/all/john-yakabuski
· You also can’t raft up with other boats or pull up onto a beach close to another boat, as that could put you in close proximity with the occupants.
· You also have to be careful to maintain a safe distance from others when doing things like loading up where you plan to launch or when fueling your boat.
· After doing anything that requires touching an item someone else may have touched, like a gate lock or a fuel pump, disinfect by washing your hands or using a hand sanitizer as soon as possible.
Finally, to maintain the highest level of safety pack your gear and supplies ahead of time and don’t plan to stop at a store on the way to your fishing destination, as you usually might. Respect the locals.
Where Can I Go Boating, and What Boat Ramps are Open in My Area?
Every municipality have different regulations in place as to where you can launch a boat during this time of crisis. And these rules are changing by the day. If you can find a place to launch your boat please be considerate to others and follow the 2 metre social distancing guidelines.
*We strongly recommend double checking the MNR or Government of Ontario guidelines before making any trips. The Covid19 hotline for the province of Ontario is: 1-888-444-3659.
Will I Receive Assistance If I have Mechanical Issues While Boating During the COVID-19 Crisis?
This is a question that may weigh heavily on a lot of people’s minds, since it’s another way your safety may be impacted out on the water. Make sure your boat is in good working order and that you have enough fuel, plus ensure that you have all of your safety equipment on board like lifejackets and flares but do consider that if you have mechanical issues or are in trouble it could take a while before you can get help.
How Do I Disinfect My Boat During the COVID-19 Crisis?
Like many solid surfaces, the parts of your boat could temporarily house the COVID-19 virus. As long as you keep boating between you and your family or that one buddy limit, your boat in and of itself shouldn’t be any problem. But, what if you want to be extra cautious and disinfect your boat?
The CDC recommendations can be found here:
That means disinfecting surfaces with Canadian approved disinfectants see info here:
However, you should remember that some of the approved disinfectants (like bleach or acids) can harm some of the surfaces of a boat. The canvass and vinyls are particularly subject to damage or discoloration, if disinfecting chemicals are left on their surfaces.
So, after disinfecting be sure to give your boat a thorough wash-down when you get home. The most important thing overall is simply to maintain a clean boat.
The Bottom Line on fishing on a boat During Coronavirus:
Check on the regulations affecting your locality or where you plan on going fishing. Be careful to maintain 2 metre social distancing practices.
Fishing is still hands-down so much fun!