Hooked on Sustainability: How Anglers Can Save Our Planet

By Esther Jacobs - Salt Life Charters Mossel Bay Harbour (Anglers Talk Magazine)

We’re delving deep into the urgent message our planet is sending us and exploring how we, as anglers, can respond effectively.

Everywhere you look, the world is signaling distress. For years, we've witnessed a cascade of environmental crises: devastating floods, explosive volcanic eruptions, uncontrollable forest fires, massive tsunamis, and melting glaciers leading to rising sea levels. Public health has also been under siege with outbreaks of flus and viruses. These events are not isolated; they are interconnected warnings from Mother Earth, urging us to change our ways.

The angling community has a unique role in promoting sustainable practices and protecting aquatic ecosystems. Here are some specific actions that anglers can take to contribute to a healthier planet:

Actions for the Angling Community

1. Use Eco-Friendly Tackle and Gear:
   • Opt for biodegradable fishing lines and lead-free tackle to reduce environmental impact. Avoid using plastic baits and lures, which can contribute to pollution.
     
     
2. Respect Fishing Regulations:

• Always follow local fishing regulations, including size and bag limits, to help maintain fish populations and protect endangered species.

3. Minimise Habitat Disturbance:

• Avoid fishing in sensitive areas such as spawning grounds or near coral reefs. Be mindful of your impact on the habitat and strive to leave no trace.

4. Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives:

• Join or organize coastal clean-up events to remove trash from beaches, coastal paths and rivers. Properly dispose of your own waste and pick up any litter you encounter.
• Learn how to carry out clean-up dives to remove ghost fishing gear and debris from the reefs. 

5. Educate and Advocate:

• Share knowledge about sustainable fishing practices with fellow anglers and the wider community. Advocate for stronger environmental protection policies and support conservation initiatives.

6. Tag and Release:

• Practise tag and release to help with the sustainable management and conservation of marine line fish species. 

7. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint:

• Opt for fuel-efficient boats and engines. Carpool with fellow anglers to fishing locations or consider walking or biking where feasible.

8. Practice Catch and Release:

• Follow catch and release guidelines to ensure the survival of fish. Use barbless hooks, handle fish with wet hands or gloves, and release them quickly and gently back into the water.

9. Support Sustainable Fisheries:

• Choose to fish in areas where sustainable fishing practices are enforced. Support policies and organisations that promote sustainable fishing and conservation efforts.

10. Support Habitat Restoration Projects:

• Get involved in or donate to projects that aim to restore and preserve aquatic habitats, such as wetland restoration or riverbank stabilisation.

11. Monitor and Report Environmental Changes:

• Keep an eye on the health of the ecosystems where you fish. Report any signs of pollution, invasive species, or other environmental issues to local authorities or conservation groups.

Expanding the Impact

Incorporating these actions into your angling routine can significantly contribute to the conservation of aquatic ecosystems and the sustainability of fish populations. Here’s how anglers can further enhance their impact:

Join Conservation Programmes

• The Cooperative Fish Tagging Project: join the project to provide valuable data on the population dynamics, distribution, migration, and behaviour of South Africa’s marine fish. 
• Angler Education Programmes: Participate in programmes that teach sustainable fishing techniques and environmental stewardship. If there are none locally, you can familiarize yourself with the Guidelines for responsible recreational fishing in South Africa.
• Citizen Science Projects: Contribute to scientific research by recording and sharing your fishing data and wildlife sightings with conservation organizations.

Promote Ethical Angling

• Angling Clubs and Associations: Work with angling clubs to promote and enforce ethical fishing practices among members.
• Online Platforms: Use social media and online forums to spread awareness about sustainable angling and share best practices.

Support Eco-Friendly Businesses

• Local and Sustainable Products: Purchase gear and supplies from businesses that prioritize sustainability and environmental responsibility.
• Eco-Tourism: Engage in eco-friendly fishing tours and support operators who practice and promote sustainable fishing.

By adopting these practices, the angling community can play a pivotal role in preserving aquatic environments and ensuring that fishing remains a sustainable and enjoyable activity for future generations. Together, we can heed Mother Earth's warnings and create a more resilient planet for future generations by harmonizing our passion for angling with the health of our planet.