Seasickness, or motion sickness, is a common issue that can quickly ruin a fishing trip. The condition results from a sensory mismatch where the inner ear’s balance system detects motion, but the eyes, especially when focused on a stationary interior, signal that the body is still. This conflict between the vestibular system and visual input confuses the brain, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Fortunately, a combination of medical, dietary, and behavioral adjustments can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing this discomfort and allow you to focus on fishing.
Pharmaceutical and Device-Based Solutions
Over-the-counter antihistamines are the first line of defense against motion sickness. Products containing dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine) work by blocking signals to the vomiting center in the brain. For these oral medications to be effective, they must be taken ahead of time, typically 30 to 60 minutes before boarding the boat, as absorption becomes difficult once nausea begins. Both medications can cause side effects like drowsiness and dry mouth, with dimenhydrinate generally being more sedating than meclizine.
For longer trips or more severe symptoms, a transdermal scopolamine patch can be used. This prescription-only patch is applied behind the ear, releasing a steady dose of medication over up to three days. The scopolamine patch blocks receptors in the central nervous system, reducing sensitivity to motion. To achieve the intended effect, the patch should be applied at least four to six hours before exposure to motion.
For those seeking non-pharmacological relief, acupressure wristbands are a popular alternative. These bands feature a plastic stud that applies constant pressure to the Nei-Kuan point (P6) on the inner wrist. This pressure point is thought to stimulate the median nerve, potentially interrupting the nausea signals traveling between the brain and the stomach. While efficacy varies, they are inexpensive and lack the side effects associated with oral medications.
Pre-Trip Planning: Preparing Your Body and Diet
Preparing the body before a fishing trip is a crucial preventative measure. Getting a full night of sleep is important, as fatigue significantly increases susceptibility to motion sickness. Avoiding alcohol the night before is highly recommended, as it contributes to dehydration and lowers the body’s resistance to the effects of motion.
Dietary choices before and during the trip can stabilize the stomach and reduce the risk of nausea. Avoid heavy, greasy, spicy, or highly acidic foods, such as citrus juices or fatty meats. These items are slow to digest and increase stomach acid production, which can aggravate symptoms. Instead, focus on bland, easily digestible foods like plain crackers, toast, or cereals.
Maintaining hydration is effective, as dehydration quickly worsens seasickness symptoms. Drink plenty of water before and during the outing, avoiding excessive caffeine and sugary drinks. Some people find that consuming ginger, either in capsule form, as candied chews, or in ginger ale, helps to settle the stomach and ease feelings of queasiness.
Onboard Strategies: Controlling the Environment
Managing your immediate environment once on the boat can make a substantial difference. The most effective behavioral strategy is to keep your eyes fixed on the horizon or a distant, fixed point. This action helps to realign the conflicting signals by providing the brain with a visual reference that confirms the body’s actual motion.
Choosing a location on the vessel that minimizes movement is beneficial. The center of the boat, known as amidships, and the lowest accessible deck tend to experience the least amount of pitch and roll. The bow (front) and stern (back) will have the most pronounced motion. Staying on the deck in the fresh, cool air is preferable to remaining below deck, where odors and lack of a visual reference can intensify nausea.
Fishing Specific Adjustments
The act of fishing requires movements that can inadvertently trigger seasickness. Anglers should avoid looking down at small, close-range tasks for extended periods, including baiting hooks, organizing tackle, or staring at a fish finder screen. Focusing on these stationary objects while the boat is rocking exacerbates the sensory mismatch.
When rigging gear or handling bait, try to sit or lean against a stable surface rather than stooping over the deck. This posture minimizes unnecessary head movement, which triggers the inner ear’s balance mechanisms. If you begin to feel unwell while actively fishing, take an immediate break. Temporarily stop manipulating the gear and return your gaze to the open horizon until the symptoms subside.