Capt. Mike Gerry urges you to be an Ethical Angler, and our Pristine Natural Resources

Dozens of studies have consistently verified that the top five reasons people fish are:
- involvement with family and friends,
- escaping the daily routine,
- relaxation,
- being outdoors close to nature, and
- the sport and challenge of fishing.

These are becoming harder to enjoy each year. Over-crowed lakes, invasive species of aquatic vegetation, thoughtless pleasure boaters, degraded water quality and the like make spending a day on the water less relaxing and energizing, and more of a challenge.

It’s important that we practice ethical behaviors to ensure current and future generations have ample access to pristine resources and the ability to enjoy safe and sustainable fishing opportunities.

Through example and mentoring, an ethical angler promotes wise use of our aquatic and natural resources. He values and respects the aquatic environment and all of our living resources. He treats other anglers, boaters and property owners with courtesy and respect, and provides adequate fishing space to anglers on a fishing spot. He avoids spilling and never dumps pollutants such as gas or oil. He disposes of trash, including fishing line properly so that they do not hinder or hurt others. Purchases required fishing licenses and permits as a way to contribute to the up keep of our resources. Learns and obeys angling and boating regulations, to ensure the safety of all.

Here are some specific practices that I think reflect ethical behavior on the water:
- Practice catch and release for all sport fish, and carefully handle fish you intend to release alive.
- Never keep more fish for eating than needed for consumption, and never keep more that the legal allocation.
- Use tackle that minimizes harm to fish.
- Practice safe angling and boating, and use common sense practices to prevent harming yourself and others.

Respect our natural resources. Generations to come deserve to enjoy them as we have!

Note: One of the leading grassroots organizations that promote ethical angling is Recycled Fish. Learn more about this movement and take the Sportsman’s Pledge at http://recycledfish.org/home/

Captain Mike Gerry
Fish Lake Guntersville Guide Service
Web: www.fishlakeguntersvilleguideservice.com
Email: bassguide@comcast.net
(256) 759-2270