Tuesday 30 October 2018
Abandoned, lost or discarded equipment-fishing nets, ropes, lines and tackle-go on 'ghost fishing' for many years.
They damage the marine environment, impact fish stocks and are a serious hazard to boats.
Many threatened and endangered marine species are impacted by entanglement and ingestion of fishing gear.
You can help prevent ghost nets in the marine environment by:
- Storing waste fishing gear such as cut-off lengths of rope or line, damaged floats or lures and used cyalumes (glow sticks) in closed containers.
- Checking lines and nets regularly for damage.
- Trying to retrieve snagged gear where possible.
- Stowing your gear securely when it's not in use.
Read more about marine pollution or reporting a marine pollution incident.