The Journal
When monofilament fishing line is left along a lake or river it can be harmful to wildlife.
In early August, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officer Andrea Sponseller reported finding a dead osprey on the banks of Trout Creek in the Routt National Forest in northwest Colorado. The bird had become entangled in fishing line.
“The line was wrapped around the osprey’s feet and neck,” Sponseller said. “Anglers should never discard fishing line, hooks or bait along a water way. All of these can be harmful to wildlife.”
CPW said that it receives reports from people who have found birds ensnared by fishing line every year.
“I’ve seen quite a few birds tangled and killed by fishing line in the last few years. Anglers should just put unneeded line in their pocket or tackle box and then throw it away properly,” Sponseller said.
Some anglers also clean their catch next to the water and then leave the guts on the bank. That can attract bears and other wildlife. Fish should be cleaned well away from a lake or river and the entrails disposed of in a dumpster or garbage can, CPW said.
