Saltwater fishing comes with its fair share of risks, but some places are noticeably more dangerous for anglers. From inhospitable currents to hidden obstacles, the epic fishing in many areas comes at a cost. These risks echo throughout both commercial and recreational fishing. Around 24,000 fatalities occur across the world in fisheries, which makes it one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. Death rates in American fisheries are 40 times the national average and 8 times that of people operating motor vehicles for a living.
These startling figures highlight the treacherousness of the ocean. Ironically, many of the most dangerous areas are the best places to fish. This is due to the heightened feeding activity of fish in turbulent waters. While completely eliminating any risk while fishing is laughable, there are a few places that should be approached with caution. Through a series of unfortunate events, these fishing spots have claimed the lives of countless anglers. While their unfavorable features can be mitigated with proper preparation, it’s best to avoid these areas entirely.
There are plenty of safer places to land epic catches, so there’s no reason to take unnecessary risks. To highlight the dangers of saltwater fishing, we compiled a list of the most dangerous places for anglers in America. Over the years these fishing spots have gained nothing but infamy within the fishing community. Prepare to be shocked by their disastrous features, since they are some of the most inhospitable places on earth!
Most Dangerous Places for Anglers in the U.S.
Fishing Spot #3: Hazard Rock, RI – Located in the heart of the Striper Coast, this area is an enticing conundrum for anglers. Despite its unappealing weather, this area is home to some of the best fishing in America. Unfortunately, what makes this place such a great fishing spot also makes it undeniably deadly. Sporting terrible weather and deceptive rock formations, this area is notorious for mortal accidents. Its large flat expanse of rock is the top of an underwater cavern, which creates an overwhelming current. The top of the rocks are extremely slippery, and the surrounding water is surprisingly deep.
This creates the perfect trap for surf-casters, since they can easily be swept into the ocean by crashing waves. While the normal instinct is to swim back to the rocks, this is a deadly mistake. The waves are so strong that they instantly beat frantic swimmers to death against the rocks. The best choice to survive is swimming out to sea and hanging onto a buoy until help arrives. Even with this grim description, Hazard Rock is so notorious for big catches that many anglers take the risk.
Fishing Spot #2: Devil’s Hole, NY – This area is tucked away bellow the world famous falls on the Niagara River. Despite its small size, it has claimed the lives of a shocking amount of anglers. What makes this area so dangerous is the shocking amount of turbulence and subsurface currents. On top of the natural current generated by Niagara Falls, three neighboring power plants suck and pump water from the river.
This lethal combination creates an unpredictable atmosphere that’s complemented by 18 mph currents. These routinely wreak havoc on visiting fishing teams. From flipping over boats to drowning passengers, this area of the river is overwhelmed with death. The water is constantly changing, so crews have to always be on the lookout for turbulence and undertows.
Fishing Spot #1: The Red Triangle, CA – While the weather is relatively calm, this area is absolutely invested with sharks. Out of all the shark attacks in the U.S., the Red Triangle accounts for a staggering 38%. This deadly area stretches 100 miles from Bodega Bay to Año Nuevo Island near Santa Cruz. The third corner of the triangle reaches out to the Farallon Islands. Thanks to favorable weather and a robust amount of elephant seals, this area is a paradise for sharks.
The Red Triangle is home to countless species of large sharks, with the most notorious being the Great White. These sharks routinely exceed 15 feet, and they are known to prey on Kayak fishermen. Every year multiple anglers are mauled and killed by these giant beasts, so avoid this area at all costs.