Green, eco-friendly fishing practices guarantee there will be populations of ocean and freshwater fish for the future. Below are 10 tips regarding what you can incorporate on your next fishing trip.
- Take a trash bag or extra grocery store bag along with you on your trip. It’s really handy for any trash you create, from bait containers and fishing line to food wrappers. It also works out well if you come across garbage on or near the water. Be proactive and pick it up, then discard all of your trash properly at the end of your fishing trip.
- Only keep fish from invasive or overpopulated species. Most common in the Gulf of Mexico is the lionfish. This fish has no natural predators and they consume so much of the waterway’s food that native fish are often displaced.
- Use every part of the fish you keep. If you’re not going to eat all of the fish, bury it in the garden. Decomposing fish provide essential nutrients for plants.
- Properly maintain your boat to ensure you’re not leaking gas or oil into the water.
- Use lead-free tackle.
- Clean all your equipment thoroughly.
- Choose biodegradable bait options instead of plastic or live bait.
- Use a biodegradable alternative to monofilament fishing line. After your trip, collect all fishing line and dispose of it properly.
- Check with your local fish and game organizations to learn which species are protected/endangered, and be sure to release those species unharmed.
- Learn how to properly catch and release a fish without harming it.
These easy steps will keep our wildlife safe and leave our waterways healthier for generations to come.