ECO-FACTS | Live 4 Adventure

Reel in Responsibility: How Recreational Fishing Impacts the Environment and What You Can Do to Help

Rubbish in Australia’s Oceans: A Growing Problem

Australia’s oceans, known for their breathtaking beauty and rich marine life, are under threat from an overwhelming tide of rubbish. From plastic bottles and food wrappers to fishing gear and ghost nets, this waste doesn’t just pollute the water—it harms marine animals, damages ecosystems, and even makes its way into our food chain. The ocean is drowning in trash, and it’s time we turn the tide.

3 Shocking Facts About Ocean Rubbish in Australia

Up to 130,000 tonnes of plastic leak into Australia’s marine environment each year, threatening sea life like turtles, dolphins, and seabirds.
More than 75% of marine debris found in Australian waters is plastic, and it can take hundreds of years to break down.
Over 70% of seabirds in Australian waters have ingested plastic, mistaking it for food, which often leads to starvation or internal injuries

5 Ways You Can Help Prevent Ocean Rubbish

Dispose of Rubbish Responsibly: Always use bins or take your trash home—never leave it behind on the beach or in the water.
Switch to Reusable Alternatives: Ditch single-use plastics for reusable bags, bottles, and containers to reduce waste.
Join Clean-Up Efforts: Participate in local beach or waterway clean-up events to help remove rubbish and protect marine life.
Secure Your Fishing Gear: Ensure fishing lines, hooks, and nets are properly disposed of or stored to prevent them from becoming marine debris.
Spread Awareness: Educate friends and family about the impact of rubbish on the ocean and encourage sustainable practices in your community.

Small changes in your everyday habits can make a whale of a difference! Let’s work together to keep Australia’s oceans clean and teeming with life.

Reel in Responsibility: How Recreational Fishing Impacts the Environment and What You Can Do to Help

Fishing is more than a hobby—it’s a way to connect with nature, enjoy the great outdoors, and create lifelong memories. But as recreational fishermen, it’s important to recognize the ripple effects our actions can have on the environment. From discarded fishing gear polluting waterways to overfishing disrupting delicate ecosystems, our love for fishing can unintentionally rock the boat when it comes to environmental health.

The good news? Small, mindful changes can make a big splash. This page dives into the environmental impacts of recreational fishing and offers practical, easy-to-follow tips to help protect the ecosystems we cherish. Together, we can ensure that future generations of anglers can enjoy healthy waters, thriving fish populations, and a cleaner planet.

Why It Matters

Discarded fishing line and tackle can injure wildlife, like birds and turtles, leaving them tangled in trouble.
Overfishing in certain areas can throw ecosystems out of balance.
Leaving behind trash or disturbing habitats damages the environment we all love to explore.
But here’s the catch: every angler has the power to protect our waterways. From cleaning up after a trip to practicing sustainable fishing, your actions can safeguard the environment while preserving the sport you love.