3 Tips for Fishing Responsibly

If you’ve chosen fishing as your new hobby, know that there’s more to getting started than merely shopping for the right fishing equipment Schuylkill County PA. Mindful anglers understand the importance of caring for their environment while participating in their sport. These three essential tips will introduce you to responsible fishing principles.

1. Obtain Your Fishing License

Always buy a fishing license. You won’t need to take a class or pass a test. Simply buy the license for the state where you’ll fish and store it in a waterproof bag that’s easily accessible. If you can’t produce your license when asked by authorities, you could receive a fine. Beyond preventing a penalty, your license purchase helps save the environment. Funds from fishing licenses support restoration and conservation goals of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

2. Review Waterway Regulations

The area where you’ll fish will likely have regulations designed to protect the ecosystem and to preserve fish populations. Before you even set out on your excursion, you should make sure that fishing is permitted at your waterway of choice. Common fishing restrictions include limitations on the size, number and type of fish you can harvest. Research the styles of bait permitted at your fishing spot; some locations prohibit live bait.

3. Leave No Trace

Did you know that it takes 600 years for fishing line to decompose? Improperly discarded fishing line creates a lethal hazard for wildlife. Take your old line with you and recycle it at a sporting goods store. A nearby boat launch may have a receptacle dedicated to fishing line disposal. Always pack your trash along with your fishing gear when you leave. If you notice litter that’s not yours, still take it with you. It’s best to leave a place better than you found it.

Fishing is only possible with healthy waterways and a robust fish population. By practicing responsible fishing habits now, anglers can make their sport accessible for future generations.