Spending time in the water is one of the best ways to relax and have fun. Being able to spend quality time with your dog takes that fun to a whole new level.
Dogs have repeatedly proven why they remain our best friends, and fishing is a great opportunity to bond better with your pet.
Going fly fishing with your dog on a drift boat or being waist-deep in the water with your dog is an experience like no other. Imagine how much fun it will be when your dog spots a few trout and alerts you.
Going out with a pet, however, requires adequate planning and preparation. In this post, you will find key points to consider before you go fly fishing with your dog.
Consider the Surroundings
Even trained dogs lose control every once in a while, which is why you must choose the right spot. For most dogs, the environment can influence how they react and respond on the boat or in the water.
While some spots are perfect, others may have elements that could be detrimental or even harmful to the dog.
Since your dog won’t be on a leash while you fish, you should try to steer clear of busy roads. If you’re fishing near a highway, your dog must always be close to you, which isn’t guaranteed. In general, we advise that you avoid busy environments because it is difficult to keep an eye on your dog while fishing.
Teach Some Basic Commands
Before taking your dog fishing, you should have taught it some basic commands. While there is no perfect list of commands your dog must know, it should be able to understand and act accordingly.
While some dogs are naturally well behaved, the chances are that with distractions around, they may wander and roam a little. When they do, you should be able to control their movements from a distance.
Some basic commands to teach your dog, especially when fishing, are:
- Stay
- Sit
- Heel
- Leave it/Drop it
- Come
Have Enough Treats
Fishing should be fun, and dogs love treats. Having enough treats comes with two main benefits. Firstly, they go hand in hand with your commands. When your dog gets rewarded for obeying a command, they are more likely to obey.
Secondly, treats help calm your dog when fishing. If your dog is terrified of water and loses it when you leave it on the shore to fish, offer treats. This is one secret to help ease their pain or nervousness.
Know-How Comfortable Your Dog Is Around Water
Some dogs naturally love water and learn to swim quickly. Some have no idea what to do when they see water, and others get frightened at the sight of large bodies of water.
Knowing how comfortable your dog is around the water helps you choose the right fishing spot. Generally, we advise that you stick to small and medium-sized ponds or lakes. This way, it is easier to get to your dog in case of an emergency. Whereas in larger bodies of water, a slip or an unexpected deep spot could become life-threatening.
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