Colorado Parks and Wildlife urges residents to leave no trace and never litter discarded monofilament (fishing line) during or after fishing.
In early August, a dead osprey was found in the northwest part of the state in Routt National Forest on the banks of Trout Creek. The report received by CPW said it looked like the bird had been shot, but wildlife officer Andrea Sponseller discovered it was entangled in fishing line after investigating.
“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.”
Every year, CPW receives reports from all parts of the state of birds tangled in fishing line. Some anglers clean their catch next to the water and leave fish guts on the bank, which can attract bears and other wildlife. Fish should be gutted and cleaned away from water habitats, and entrails should be disposed of in a dumpster or garbage can.
“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. “If you see discarded line or other fishing gear, please pick it up. You’ll help keep fishing areas clean and remove a hazard that could kill Colorado’s wildlife.”
For more information, go to www.cpw.state.co.us.
