As anglers, we share a deep connection to the waterways we fish. Keeping them clean and healthy is crucial not just for the environment but for the future of the sport we love. Disposing of fishing line and soft plastic baits properly ensures a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.
When improperly discarded, fishing line and soft plastic baits can harm fish and wildlife. Fish and birds can ingest these materials, leading to serious health issues or even death. Beyond harming animals, littering can disrupt the beauty and health of waterways, making them less enjoyable and productive for everyone.
Fishing Line: Monofilament and braided fishing lines take hundreds of years to decompose. When left in the environment, they can entangle fish, birds, and other wildlife, leading to injuries or fatalities.
Soft Plastics: Discarded baits may be mistaken for food by fish and other animals, causing blockages in their digestive systems and potentially introducing toxins into the food chain.
At So Good Baits, we’re proud to support initiatives like the "Don’t Trash Nature" program. This campaign encourages anglers to clean up natural spaces, inspiring a culture of stewardship. Participants can share before-and-after photos of their cleanup efforts using the hashtags #DontTrashNature or #QwikCatch for a chance to win monthly prizes. Learn more at Don't Trash Nature.
The Keep America Fishing “Pitch It” campaign was initially launched to address a legislative proposal in Maine to ban all non-biodegradable soft plastic lures. The campaign has since expanded nationwide, urging anglers to recycle their worn-out soft plastics or dispose of them properly. Learn more about the initiative at Pledge to Pitch It.
Fishing Line Recycling:
Use designated recycling bins at marinas and tackle shops. Many locations now offer these bins for monofilament and braided lines.
If no recycling bin is available, mail the line to organizations like Berkley’s recycling program.
Where recycling isn't an option, haul it home with you to dispose of in the trash.
Soft Plastic Bait Disposal:
Collect worn-out baits and send them to recycling programs, such as those offered by participating bait manufacturers.
Use reusable bait bags to minimize single-use plastic waste.
Where recycling isn’t available, dispose of them in the trash rather than in the water.
Prevent Littering:
Always carry a small trash bag or container on your boat or tackle box to collect discarded materials.
Get involved in local clean-up events or organize your own with friends and family.
It’s easy to think small actions don’t make a difference, but every piece of fishing line or plastic bait recycled adds up. By doing our part, we’re preserving the sport we love, protecting wildlife, and ensuring our waterways remain beautiful for generations to come.
Together, we can "Pitch It" and make a real difference.
