Fishing is a sport. You should, therefore know and believe in the philosophy of releasing caught fish. If your catch has received relatively little injuries, weigh it, measure it, but then return it to the water. It deserves to leave if it has survived your hook without any serious injuries. Returning the catch is a noble etiquette that you show to the victims of your hook. Remember, the fish that you do not need for consumption and which is relatively less injured, should be released back to the water. Use only those tackle that minimize the harm that comes to fish from being hooked.
Other than respecting the fish, there are other aspects of angling ethics that you should commit to memory before you go out fishing.
For, instance, one of the basic responsibilities that you have is, you must see to the protection of the natural habitat of the fish. Do not pollute the location or create a garbage dump. In fact, as a lesson to others, if you see anybody else soiling the natural facility, prevent the action. Clean up other people's litter if necessary and rescue environment.
Be aware of the species of fish you are catching. Get to know their life cycles by heart. If it so happens that you catch a fish which spawns around this time of the year, show the good sense to throw it back into the water. Do not harm the natural process.
Do not ever use as a bait an exotic species of fish alien to the lake or pond you are fishing in. if they get away, they might survive and multiply, this might create an ecological nuisance.
Respect the rights of others. Do not be a nuisance. Keep away from your neighbor's fishing line. Do not disturb the tranquility with radio or other music, use headphones instead. If you must use a mobile phone, keep it in discreet mode.
Do not pollute water. Do not dump gasoline or other oil or any other pollutants in the water. If any kind of environmental damage or pollution has come to your knowledge, report it immediately with the proper authorities so that such can be prevented from happening again.
Treat all other anglers, boaters or any other people that you might meet in the field with respect and courtesy.
Do not trespass in private property. If you have intentions to fish in a water body which is in somebody's private land, ask the owner's permission before fishing there.
Don't be like my friend Jack who was almost shot by an angry landowner when he
was caught trespassing.
If you are in a boat, observe safety regulations. For example, do not let your speed cross the maximum permissible limit. Otherwise, an accident might
and probably will occur.
A primary task of an ethically inclined angler is to spread the word among fellow sportsmen. You are already aware of the rules and regulations, but maybe there are others who are not. Educating them is a duty with all anglers. Be a promoter of public awareness and
understanding regarding ethical angling. Promote ethical usage of water resources through education. Also, heighten awareness among people regarding the agenda of conservation that ethical fishermen have initiated to preserve nature in its true self.
