Fishing With Your Dog: Tips and Risks

If you are in the market for a new fishing friend, you might not have to look further than the four-legged one laying on your rug. Dogs are excellent companions for fishing. They are typically available for your plans, rarely leave your side, and might keep quiet long enough for you to reel in a fresh catch. Before you hit the road and find the perfect fishing hole, make sure you know how to prepare, what to expect, and what to bring.

Before You Go

First, ask yourself how comfortable your dog will be around water and at a new, outdoor location. To ensure a successful trip, you’ll want to make sure your dog can handle the situation. Test your dog's ability to jump in an out of the boat, make sure they can be steady while riding on the boat, and teach them to relax while you unwind with your fishing pole. A naughty pup could make for a disastrous fishing experience.

According to Peeva, the top 5 best dogs to accompany your water excursions are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers, American Water Spaniels, Poodles, and Australian Shepherds. Research has shown that these five breeds show the best temperament, energy levels, water likability, and build for fishing.

If your dog meets the guidelines, make sure they are prepared with the proper gear to protect them. Here are some items to pack.

Leash.
Longline.
Poop Bags.
Plenty of Water.
Treats.
Toys.
Lifejacket. (For Boat)
Dog First Aid Kit.

Find a Spot

When planning a fishing trip, you will need the perfect fishing hole. First, make sure the area is dog-friendly whether it is a park pond, large lake, flowing creek, or running river. Look for secluded spots along the lake or river so your dog doesn't interrupt someone else's fishing trip. The area should meet the needs of both you and your dog. If you are taking a boat, make sure the marina does not have rules limiting pets. You should be able to find plenty of local spots or roundtrip worthy locations to throw your line using a quick internet search.

Enjoy the Trip

Whether you fish off the shore, off a boat, or in a creek, having a four-legged companion will lessen any feelings of loneliness and increase the fun! Fishing is a great bonding experience for man’s best friend. With the right gear, training, and preparation, any dog can be an awesome fishing partner.

The Risks

Awareness of any potential hazards is half of the battle while planning any activity. As many dog owners know, you need to know of all the dangers and challenges related to your task and with fishing, there are few dangers to consider.