FWC reminds fishermen to clean up their fishing line

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is reminding fishermen of the dangers posed by discarded monofiliament fishing line and hooks.

Monofilament fishing line and fishing hooks are a hazard in the wild where they can snag and entangle birds, sea turtles and manatees, leading to injury and even death.

FWC researchers note that clumps of monofilament line are the most common foreign object found during manatee necropsies.

Aside from harming aquatic wildlife, wading birds and shorebirds which frequent piers and other fishing hotspots are often hooked accidentally when trying to grab bait off an angler’s line

To help protect wildlife form your fishing line, make sure to check your tackle frequently for frayed line that may easily break.

Unwanted or damaged line should be stored away until it can be placed in a recycling bin.

If you see discarded monofilament line while you are out, pick it up, secure it and dispose of it appropriately.

If you come across entangled or distressed wildlife you can contact a local licensed wildlife rehabilitator by going on-line to MyFWC.com.

http://live.oysterradio.com/