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Mossel Bay | Garden Route

Hooked on Sustainability: How Anglers Can Save Our Planet

Sustainable angling with Salt Life Fishing Charters

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

Everywhere you look, the world is signalling 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

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.

Respect Fishing Regulations:

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

SAAMBR marine fishing regulations

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.

Participate in Clean-Up Initiatives:

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.

Tag and Release:

    • Practise tag and release for the ORI Cooperative Fish Tagging Project to help with the sustainable management and conservation of marine linefish species. Read more in the Join Conservation Programmes section of this blog.

Smoothhound successfully tagged and released by Salt Life Fishing Charters as part of the ORI Cooperative Fish Tagging Project.

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.

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.

Beautiful but endangered red steenbras caught and released to fight another day.
Beautiful but endangered red steenbras caught and released to fight another day.

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.

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.

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. You can apply to become a member on the Oceanographic Research Institute’s website and read more about Salt Life Fishing Charters’ Mossel Bay tagging project in our blog.
  • Angler Education Programmes: Participate in programmes that teach sustainable fishing techniques and environmental stewardship. If there are none locally, you can familiarise 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 organisations. There are a number of apps available to use, such as Marine Fish Guide that raises funds for the ORI Cooperative Fish Tagging Project or iNaturalist
Educating young anglers on vulnerable ocean species like catsharks - photo captured by Outdoors with Travis.

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 prioritise sustainability and environmental responsibility.
  • Eco-Tourism: Engage in eco-friendly fishing tours and support operators who practise 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 harmonising our passion for angling with the health of our planet.

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