What Is Fishing Line Pollution — and Why It’s harming Our Waters

 

What Is Fishing Line Pollution — and Why It’s harming Our Waters

It starts with something small, and it looks harmless. But that one piece of line tells a much bigger story — one most people don’t even realize is happening.

That story is about fishing line pollution.

What Exactly Is Fishing Line Pollution?

Fishing line pollution happens when anglers leave behind or lose fishing line in the ocean, along the beach, on piers, or on the grass. It might not sound like much, but most fishing lines are made from nylon or other plastics that take hundreds of years to break down.

So, every line tossed, cut, or forgotten sticks around. Over time, it has become a deadly problem for marine life.

Researchers have found that clips, fishing line, and other lost gear make up a considerable part of the plastic waste in our oceans. Because it’s so thin and transparent, animals don’t see it until it’s too late.

Why It’s Such a Big Problem

1. Wildlife Entanglement

Fishing line is basically an invisible trap. Birds, sea turtles, manatees, fish, and dolphins get tangled. Entanglement from fishing gear is one of the top causes of death for marine animals like whales and dolphins, according to the NOAA.

2. Microplastics & Habitat Damage

Over time, old lines break apart into microplastics — tiny plastic pieces that never really disappear. Small fish eat them and end up traveling up the entire food chain.

Fishing line can also slice into coral reefs and seagrass, leaving permanent damage. The ocean floor is full of these quiet reminders of human carelessness.

The Bigger Picture

Scientists estimate that over 700,000 kilometers of fishing line are lost yearly — enough to circle the Earth nearly 18 times. That’s why what we do as anglers matters

How You Can Make a Difference

Fixing this starts small — with the same anglers who love the water.

• Recycle old line. Many marinas and tackle shops have monofilament recycling bins.
• Use a line can or a stuff-it bag. Something as simple as a “Jus’ Stuff It” or “line collection can” helps to dispose of it properly.
• Never toss the line overboard or in any environment.
• Spread the word. Teach new anglers how to handle their gear responsibly.

When we take care of our line, we take care of the places and creatures we fish for.

Final Thoughts

Fishing line pollution is about realizing how something so small can have such a significant impact.

Every angler has a responsibility to the water. To Promote, Protect, and Preserve it.
Because that thin strand that I just dropped isn’t a “big deal”, it’s more than just picking it up; it’s a reflection of how we treat what we love.

If you love nature, be clean. Recycle. Respect. Leave it better than how you found it.