A must read about safety:

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=5985.msg49524#msg49524

Kuya Mel,

With much respect and humility, I have to admit being sometimes ignorant of possible danger fishing BH and thank you for reminding me and others whats lurking under water, I post open hookup because I know there are some who wants to fish the area and afraid to go alone like me, I dont want to be there alone. Isn't it more ideal to post warning on those who fish SC (I am glad you came unscathed gettind attacked there) since there are more sightings recently in that area (KSBW report 15 GWS sighting last month) last fatality was only 3 years ago. http://www.ksbw.com/news/central-california/santa-cruz/California-surfer-killed-in-shark-attack/17103358 I am not trying to justify why I fish the area, like its been said before we are grown men and responsible for our actions, I am aware of the danger and you and Adam on the receiving end still fish the salt correct? Of course if anyone can be aware are you guys, but why still fish the ocean? Its because we love what we do. NCKA community is about awareness and safety thats why nobody should leave the group or fish by themselves. I apologize if there is something that came out wrong. Now get your shark shield and lets fish Bean together. See you on the water. 

EDIT: Thank you for posting this thread very well narrated and precautions to keep in mind, I hope not to get to call for such.

I just want to get the word out to new members who aren't aware of these events.  Its old for some and new to others.

Yeah being hit by a GWS has a lot to do with my personal reasons.

I totally forgot about Franks incident there. A sinking kayak is real scary when you stop and imagine it being you. Knowing to stay calm is very important to staying alive.

Thanks for the reminder that ANYTHING might and will go wrong on the ocean, while in our kayaks, and spreading good info around should not be frowned down upon by our fellow brothers, hatin on anutha brutha, for making an important point about our safety.

Shame on the both of you! Mel is just trying to look out for everyones safety and well being, via experience, while being apart of NCKA.   
Thanks Mel, for all the "GoodLookinOut" you have done and will continue to do.

My favorite post on BH for a long time now.  I think it should be required reading for newbies.

I agree,,,,,,i just re-reread it myself = WHEW! 

My favorite post on BH for a long time now.  I think it should be required reading for newbies.

Yeah, I agree, any newbies should be reading this. Its a very well documented post. Sticky for Newbies?

It's a wake up call for anyone that thinks they don't need to:  practice self rescue, wear a pfd, carry a vhf, carry a bilge pump, go out with a buddy, or know their limits when it comes to kayak fishing.

Hate,  hmmmm.  I love this sport.    I kayak fish almost every weekend with a tight group of guys.  On the original report mentioned, Frankfishing he is my neighbor. I still meet him occasionally at our local farmers market. I know Eugene and his Dad very well.  In fact I fished with Eugene last weekend and we are going out again on Saturday.  His Dad passed away a few years ago and we've fished together lots of time.

My buddy and I are talking out a 16 year old this Saturday.  Its his first trip on a kayak to the deep blue.  Both his parents are dropping him off at our launch site and will be waiting for us all day.  Its our responsibility to keep him safe and off course catch fish.  Thats love for the sport. 

Darius  - When I get a shark shield maybe I'll fish BH again.  Saving up for a Christmas present for myself. 

Since we're into our opinions, here's mine.

Mel introduced me to kayak fishing and he has been my fishing buddy the last 2 years. Mel only t love for his fellow kayakers and friends. As a person who believes in safety, there are never enough reminders . Newbies and oldies all need reminders.

I volunteer as a Range Safety Officer and volunteer as a White Water rescuer, I'm all about safety. I see newbies and long time shooters do dumb and stupid stuff on the range almost every time, it could as simple as they forgot not to handle any firearm during a cease fire. I volunteer because I care for everyone's safety.

I'm grateful Mel had taught me a lot about kayak safety and even glad that he's usually my fishing partner. I never go out alone in the ocean as a personal rule. It is something what was taught to me since I was a young 10 year old scuba diver.

As I grow older I tend to forget things and as we get new NCKA members, they don't know what they don't know. We all need safety reminders. For Mel, it may be personal but he loves everyone that's why he reminds everyone.

"If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all,"