The NSW deputy coroner has recommended lifejackets be compulsory for rock fishers.
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Deputy State Coroner Carmel Forbes on Thursday released the findings of inquests into nine recent rock fishing deaths, including Sung So Cho who drowned in December 2013 at Currarong, in the Shoalhaven.
Ms Forbes called for the NSW government to offer free or subsidised lifejackets, or a borrowing system, to support legislation mandating their use.
She also made two specific recommendations to Shoalhaven City Council around safety signage.
"I recommend a review of the size and location of current signage . . . and to consider the erection of further appropriate signage . . . warning of the hazards of rock fishing and promoting the wearing of lifejackets," the report read.
"I recommend considering the use of shock signage, indicating the number of deaths or serious injuries associated with rock fishing in a particular location."
At least two people have died while rock fishing in the Illawarra in the past year; a 65-year-old man at the Kiama Blowhole in August 2014, and a 48-year-old woman at Killalea in October last year.
Local emergency services have responded to many more incidents of fishers swept off rocks.
Executive officer of Surf Life Saving Illawarra Carl Nottage welcomed the call for mandatory life jackets, saying emergency responders were also put in danger by having to rescue distressed fishers.
"It is very high risk for emergency services trying to assist, whether it's lifesavers, jet skis or police. It puts emergency staff in extreme danger," Mr Nottage said.
"People have got to start taking responsibility for themselves."
He said lifejackets were a basic option to mitigate risks that rock fishers exposed themselves to.