Fishing With Your Dog: How to Keep Your Buddy Safe on the Bank and the Boat
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If you've watched our videos, you've met Brio. He's our pit bull, and he thinks every fishing trip is his fishing trip. He watches the rod tips, he barks at the fish we land and one time he tried to catch a flying carp. Fishing with your dog is a blast. It also comes with a few risks most people don't think about until something goes wrong.
For a couple years, we didn't have our dog in a life vest. But that changed after we watched him jump in the river trying to catch a fish.
Here's how we keep Brio safe on the water, whether we're on the bank or on the boat.
Your dog needs a life jacket
This is the big one. A lot of people figure their dog can swim, so why bother. Here's the thing. Swimming in a calm pool on a hot day is a whole different deal than falling off a boat into the Missouri River in October. The current on our rivers is strong, the water gets cold in the fall and a tired dog can go under fast. Muscular, deep-chested dogs like Brio tend to sink faster than you'd think.
A good dog life jacket keeps your buddy's head above water and gives you a way to pull them back in. Here's what to look for:
- A sturdy grab handle on the back. This is how you lift a wet, heavy dog out of the water and back into the boat.
- Flotation under the chest and chin. It keeps the head up and the nose out of the water.
- A bright color with reflective trim. Easy to spot in the water, especially early in the morning or at dusk.
- A snug fit. You should fit about two fingers under the straps. If it slides around, it can slip off in the water.
- A leash ring. Handy at the ramp and on the bank.
Brio wears the Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket in orange, size medium. It has two grab handles across the back, reflective trim and that bright orange you can spot from across the river. You can see it on him in the cover photo. Measure your dog's chest and weight before you order so you get the right size, and let your dog wear it around the house a few times so it feels normal before the first trip.
Safety on the boat
- Life jacket on before you leave the ramp. Every trip, even short ones.
- No jumping off a moving boat. Keep your dog seated or leashed when the boat is running, and keep them far from the motor.
- Give them a spot with grip. Boat decks get slick. A mat or a piece of outdoor carpet helps your dog keep their footing.
- Bring shade and fresh water. Dogs can't sweat like we do. Bring a bowl and plenty of water, even on cool days. River water is a no for drinking.
Safety on the bank
- Keep the life jacket on - even on land. River banks around St. Louis get muddy and steep, and a dog that chases a bird into the current can get swept downstream.
- Watch the hooks. Keep your tackle box closed and your hooks put away. Look behind you before every cast. A hook in a paw or a lip means a trip to the vet.
- Watch the bait. To a dog, a cooler full of fresh shad smells like a buffet. Keep the lid shut and pick up scraps. Raw fish with a hook still in it is a real danger.
- Check the water. Stay away from lakes and ponds with green scum on top. Some algae blooms are toxic to dogs.
- Watch out for wildlife. Snakes and snapping turtles share the bank with us. Keep curious noses close.
Pack a dog bag
- Life jacket and leash
- Water and a collapsible bowl
- Treats and a chew toy to keep them busy
- An old towel, because they will get wet
- Needle-nose pliers and a small first aid kit
- Your vet's phone number saved in your phone
Fall means cold water
Now that the highs are around 70, the air feels great but the water is cooling down every week. A wet dog in a breeze gets cold quick. Dry them off, bring a blanket for the ride home and call it a day if they start shivering.
Bring the bait, bring the dog
Set up your trip so you can focus on your fishing and your buddy. Call 319 Bait at 314-600-8061 at least 24 to 36 hours ahead, and I'll meet you at a public boat ramp, marina or pick-up spot in St. Charles or St. Louis County. Orders have a $50 minimum, and orders of $100 or more get 10% off plus free delivery. Just keep the shad cooler closed around the dog. Brio has tried.
Planning a trip with the whole crew? Check out my tips for fall fishing with the family.
Watch the action
Here's a day on the boat from Brio's point of view, life jacket and all.
Tight Lines!!!