Police have urged rock anglers to take extra care after the deaths of nine people in fishing accidents on the NSW coast this year.
Two fishermen have been swept to their deaths this year alone at Port Kembla, which has been identified as one of eight rock-fishing black spots in the state.
The latest casualty was a 31-year-old Hurlstone Park man who was washed off rocks while fishing at night at the foot of Heritage Park earlier this month.
SLIDESHOW: Search launched for missing fisherman Police divers to unlock rock fishing tragedyDespite an extensive search using the PolAir helicopter and Water Police, the man's body has not been recovered.
In March this year, a 71-year-old father from Strathfield drowned while fishing at night at Honeycomb Rocks at Port Kembla.
That man, also from Sydney's south-west, was fishing with his son when he was swept into the ocean.
The number of deaths in the first half of 2009 represents an almost twofold increase in the rate of drownings.
Marine Area Commander Superintendent Mark Hutchings said rock fishing was one of Australia's most dangerous sports.
"Already this year we have seen a number of people swept to their deaths," Mr Hutchings said.
"It's important that every angler is aware of the dangers of rock fishing and takes steps to reduce the risk.
"In the past we've seen a number of fishermen drown after jumping into the water to help a mate in trouble.
"Under no circumstances should you enter the water to attempt to rescue a person in difficulty but instead throw them a flotation device to grab hold of and then alert emergency services."
Mr Hutchings urged anglers to:
choose the safest possible location and take time to observe the conditions before casting their line;always fish with someone else; keep an eye on the waves at all times;be alert to the weather and tidal conditions;wear lightweight clothing, footwear with non-slip soles, a flotation jacket and head protection; and carry a float and line to help anyone else who might be washed into the water.Surf Life Saving NSW lifesaving manager Dean Storey said rock fishing call-outs had risen significantly this year, and the organisation was about to launch an education campaign to combat the rise in fishing-related deaths.
"Surf lifesavers, lifeguards and our support operations groups including the Westpac Rescue Helicopter have responded to a large number of rescues and drownings as a result of rock fishing incidents," Mr Storey said.
Email a friend