A profession for some, a pastime for others, and a necessity for many – fishing is both a sport and a source of food for billions. However, it’s not without its environmental impact. Overfishing, habitat destruction, and waste from discarded gear are serious issues that threaten marine ecosystems.
There are ways to minimize these impacts, and the one that might be the most easy to solve on an individual level starts with our gear.
Here are some tips for choosing and using sustainable fishing gear.
Choose Biodegradable Fishing Line
Many traditional fishing lines are made from non-biodegradable materials that can harm marine life and pollute waterways. When these lines are lost or carelessly discarded, they can take hundreds of years to decompose. Hundreds. Of. Years. If that bothers you, opt for biodegradable fishing lines, which break down naturally over time, reducing their environmental impact.
Use Circle Hooks Instead of J-Hooks
For anglers, circle hooks reduce the chance of a fish getting hooked in the gut, which can be fatal. Instead, these hooks catch in the corner of the fish’s mouth, which causes less harm and streamlines catch-and-release practices. This is important for preserving fish populations and maintaining a balanced ecosystem. Sure, it may make things a bit harder with tougher species, but consider that a challenge.
Go With Lead-Free Sinkers and Lures
Lead is a toxic metal and not good for anyone – including people and fish. So when you lose a leaded sinker or lure, you’re dropping a little bit of toxicity into the environment. No pressure though – there are now plenty of non-toxic alternatives available, made from materials like steel and tin.
Properly Dispose of Old Gear
Many fishing supplies, including monofilament line, can be recycled. Many local bait shops and marinas have recycling programs for fishing gear, but if recycling isn’t an option, ensure your gear is disposed of in a way that minimizes harm to the environment.
Support Sustainable Brands
There are many companies out there that sell environmentally friendly fishing gear. These brands focus on sustainable production practices, use recycled materials, and often give back to environmental causes. By supporting these companies, you’re investing in a healthier future for our oceans.
Another point to make here: sustainable fishing isn’t just about the gear you use – it’s also about how you use it. Follow local regulations and guidelines on catch limits and seasons. This helps to prevent overfishing and allows fish populations to recover, so we help ensure that there’s good fishing to be had for generations to come.
