5 Ways to Honor World Water Day Through Fishing Conservation

Every year on March 22nd, we can create awareness and act against the global water crisis by honoring World Water Day. This annual United Nations Observance was established in 1993 to bring attention to water-related challenges such as scarcity, pollution, and access to clean drinking water.

The health of our water sources is directly linked to the sustainability of aquatic life and ecosystems. Unsustainable fishing practices, habitat destruction, and pollution threaten both freshwater and marine ecosystems. By recognizing the connection between clean water and responsible angling, we can work towards preserving these our water resources for future generations.

Check out these five ways to help honor World Water Day and contribute to positive change.

1. Reduce pollution by recycling plastics and properly disposing of waste to keep waterways clean. When water sources are polluted with plastics, chemicals, and industrial waste, it doesn’t just affect human populations, it also devastates aquatic life. All aquatic life depends on clean water to survive. Contamination can lead to disease, declining populations, and even species extinction. Consider applying eco-friendly fishing practices like using biodegradable fishing line, biodegradable soft baits (plastic free fishing), and lead-free weights (tungsten is a good alternative).

2. Learn more about and advocate for sustainable fishing practices (such as catch and release). NOAA Fisheries or state fish and wildlife agencies can be good resources. These organizations can help you understand more about implementing catch limits, seasonal restrictions, and protected areas in waterways near you. Fishing is an essential source of food and livelihood for millions of people worldwide, but overfishing, habitat destruction, and bycatch pose serious threats to our aquatic ecosystems.

3. Volunteer to help restore essential aquatic habitat through fishing conservation organizations. Wetlands, mangroves, and coral reefs serve as vital breeding and feeding grounds for fish. Protecting these habitats helps maintain healthy waterways and fish populations. You can participate in beach clean-up efforts, help to replant mangroves through a local conservation organization, or learn how to snorkel or free dive to help with underwater coral reef clean-up projects.

4. Learn how to conserve more water at home. Use water efficiently at home to reduce strain on our aquifers and freshwater resources. Fix leaky faucets, take shorter showers by turning off the water while soaping up, run full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine, and turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth.

5. When eating out, make sustainable seafood choices. Support fisheries that follow ethical and sustainable fishing practices, look for certifications like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) label, and follow the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program.

World Water Day serves as a reminder that protecting our water resources goes hand in hand with fishing conservation and healthy aquatic ecosystems. Clean water is essential for human survival and the health of aquatic life. Take a stand to conserve water and practice eco-friendly fishing on March 22nd – it will help ensure a future that includes safe fishable, drinkable water.