Deep Water Fishing, Boats, and Sea Sickness

Bill Kinney Photography

When I was younger my family and I had the opportunity to go fishing on the Great Lakes. Friends of ours had a boat and offered to take us out for the day and have a good time. We gladly accepted! It isn't everyone who has a boat you know! The one stipulation was that we had to take Dramamine before going out. (Dramamine is a drug taken as a relief for nausea, motion and sea sickness, and other related symptoms.) We informed them we'd been on plenty of open water and had never before had a problem with sea sickness. Nevertheless, they asked us to take it just to be sure no one would have to be cleaning up any "messes." It seemed fair, no one wanted to spend the day "sick at sea."

None of us got sea sicknesses that day, however, I remember nothing of that fishing trip but laying in a chair and not being able to move. I'm telling you this story first off so that you are aware of the possibility of sea sickness and its unpleasant side effects. Secondly, I'd like to share alternative tips to avoid being "sick at sea."

Not everyone experiences sea sickness in the same way and it can vary by trip. Here are a few tips for those of you who know you are prone to becoming sea sick or just wanting to have an enjoyable trip without having to worry about getting sick.

Obviously over the counter medication can be taken (such as Dramamine) just be aware that side effects such as extreme drowsiness may occur. Another more extreme way to go is purchasing an anti sea sickness wristband. These wristbands are made specifically for those who suffer from motion
sickness. It works by targeting a certain pressure point that alleviates nausea.

Do not go out on an empty stomach, but be aware of the foods you eat beforehand. Avoid greasier foods or other foods that aren't as compatible with you. Eat fresh fruits to keep you hydrated and "neutral" foods such as bread. It has been suggested that taking ginger before the trip can help because of its soothing effects on the stomach.

Furthermore you should avoid drinking alcohol because it can increase the effects of the motion sickness. Instead drink plenty of water and stay hydrated before and during the trip.

If during the trip you do experience motion sickness focus yourself on a fixed point on the shore. Stay facing forward towards the center of the boat, the edges will have the most extreme motion. Try to stay on deck in open air. Below deck can worsen your motion sickness and laying down will increase the effects.

The most important thing to remember when if you are out on open water and suffering from seasickness is to get plenty of water, fresh air, and keep occupied. Stress can only worsen the effects of motion sickness.