February is the middle of winter, and even in South Carolina, conditions offer lethal dangers, with little room for error for adventurous anglers. Winter angling can be some of the best entertainment of the year, but extra precautions should be taken during and before each trip.
Even on a warm day with pleasant temperatures, the ocean water will be in the 50s and 60s this month, if not cooler. Hypothermia will set in very quickly when a person is exposed to constant 50-degree water for an extended period.
Engines, electrical systems, pumps and other systems should be maintained and in good working order before taking ocean trips in winter. Anglers and boaters should take extra precautions to insure they make it back to the dock unscathed.
All safety gear should be in good working order, and everyone on board should be aware of the location of the safety gear. In addition to the required safety gear, other items will be important to have during the winter. For starters, a good marine radio (VHF) and even a cell phone should be on board. An open line of communication to the U.S. Coast Guard and access to assistance is critical. With cold conditions eminent, extra clothing, disposable heating packs and solar blankets are ideal emergency essentials in case of a fall overboard.
Lastly, chilly conditions dry-dock most anglers during the winter months. Few boats, if any, will be visiting the open ocean in February and March. Anglers should develop a destination plan with a designated time of return. Also, boaters should designate when contacts back on land should call the Coast Guard when the boating party has not returned to the hill.
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