One weather study shows results that may shock many of you. According to a June 24 report from The Washington Post, fishing is the leading cause of leisure lightning strike deaths in the U.S.
Most people don't think of fishing as a dangerous sport, and if you asked them about the dangers of fishing you would likely hear about things like boating accidents or drownings. What you aren't likely to hear is that anglers are at a higher risk of being struck by lightning than any other leisure outdoor activity.
A study from the National Weather Service says that 238 people died from lightning strikes from 2006 to 2012, and that 26 of those were struck while fishing.
The top five outdoor activities for lightning strike deaths were:
- Fishing: 26 deaths
- Camping: 15 deaths
- Boating: 14 deaths
- Soccer: 12 deaths
- Beach/farming or ranching: 11 deaths each
So, the next time your out on the lake and hear a crack of lightning, it may be wise to call it a day.
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