Water Safety on the Great Lakes

Boaters: Don't Get Trapped!
Recreational boaters on the Great Lakes should be aware that commercial fishing trap nets may be anchored in some locations. Michigan Sea Grant provides information on how to recognize and avoid these nets in a new brochure: Don't Get Trapped! What Recreational Anglers and Boaters Should Know About Commercial Fishing Trap Nets.

"The most important thing is to be aware of buoys or floats that are used to mark the nets," says Michigan Sea Grant Extension Agent Chuck Pistis. "When boaters encounter these markers, they need to give the nets a wide berth and should not attempt to pass or troll between the net buoys."

The brochure includes practical information and full-color illustrations about identifying and avoiding commercial fishing trap nets. It was produced in partnership with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, the Ludington Area Charterboat Association, the Michigan Boating Industries Association, the Michigan Charter Boat Association, the Michigan Fish Producers Association and the Michigan Steelhead and Salmon Fishermen's Association.

If tangled in a trap net: Keep bow of boat facing lakeward Shut off engine if prop is tangled Release tension on cables and cut Do not enter water Radio U.S. Coast Guard

Avoid trap nets: Look for red or orange flag markers, buoys and floats Give wide berth to nets to avoid long anchor lines Do not pass or troll between trap net buoys

Visit the Michigan Sea Grant Trap Nets web site www.miseagrant.umich.edu/nets