“Minimize your impact” Hey, anglers and water aficionados! Have you ever wondered how you could help keep our waterways and rivers healthy and happy? Well, there are a few things you can do, by simply being aware and respectful of your natural surroundings.
If you have ever heard of the phrase “take only pictures and leave only footprints” then you know what we are talking about. As outdoors-people, we often appreciate the opportunities we have to go out and fish and explore some of our favorite and most gorgeous places in Canada, and we want nothing more than to keep it that way for future generations.
Paying attention to trail markers, avoiding area closures, and leaving a stretch of river the way you naturally found it are foundational acts of stewardship to follow. Cleaning up old fishing line that has been left behind, disposing of old hooks, even getting rid of any garbage you find is always a good idea. And finally, being aware of invasive species, weeds, or pathogens that your gear may be concealing after having spent time in another watershed is an important issue to mitigate.
Whirling disease and other aquatic invasive species and pathogens can spread from one watershed to another by “hitchhiking” on your gear. That’s why it’s always important to make sure that all your equipment, be it fishing gear or hiking gear be cleaned before moving from one region or watershed to another. This is simple as “clean, drain, dry”. You just never know what microscopic organisms or weeds could be clinging to your waders, boots, or other gear so being proactive is just one of many ways you are helping to minimize your impact.
These are some key points to think about to help you practice good stewardship of our rivers and streams, respecting the natural landscape when enjoying a day out in the bush or along the river:
Ensuring nothing is left behind such as fishing line, hooks, bait, garbage, etc. Consider packing a small garbage bag or use your landing net to pack garbage out at the end of the day.
Cleanliness of fishing gear and clothing will help reduce the spread of whirling disease and other invasive species and weeds.
Leaving the rivers and streams as undisturbed as possible – rocks should stay put where the river put them! Building rock dams and other formations can alter flow patterns, damage habitat for bottom-dwelling species, and cause erosion.
When catch and release fishing, follow best practices to maximize the safety and survival of released fish. Consider reducing your fishing effort during periods of high temperature or low flow.
Know whether you are accessing public land or if permission is required and be aware of postings, advisories, and other restrictions prior to visiting an area (this might include regulations and safety concerns)
If you see first nations artifacts or artifacts of any kind, leave them and report their location to an archeological professional
To learn more about how you can minimize your impact please visit Leave No Trace Canada.
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