posted by Catherine on May 27
Well, some big names in conservation are getting together to promote it – so why is it so good?
It has always been assumed that catching fish ‘for fun’ was not in the Top 10 most animal friendly hobbies – infact some would say it is a ‘cruel sport’ and can lead to habitat damage.
But then, most of the best animal trackers and conservationists around the world today were once hunters – so maybe there is something in it.
What’s The Key?
Well, it would seem that although many people are aware of the ‘great outdoors’ and that it needs our help to be maintained and improved (or saved) – but it is really only those people actively dependant on that environment for their pleasure - ie hunters and anglers that actually make a difference. The same could be true for active nature lovers, photographers scientists.
These are the type of people that will do all they can to protect and improve an environment. A regular visitor to a certain river or woodland will, over time, be able to spot changes that others might not see straight away – and our waterways are seriously under threat.
So what better way than to encourage those young people who love fishing to stand (or sit) for hours beside rivers and streams and see what is happening to them. Not many footpaths follow streams and major rivers – and even then most people just walk on by.
An angler on the other hand will get there at the crack of dawn, set up shop, and stay there most of the day. The wildlife they see will be amazing and the peace an quiet will be worth getting up early for.
And, if the fish stop coming or there is obviously something wrong with the water – they will want to get to the bottom of it! After all, they can’t be fishermen if there are no fish!
There’s More:
Of course, you don’t have to waste the fish you catch either – you can either return them to the water (after a photo if you have to) or you can eat them – well, that really would be local food!
Obviously there could be issues with regards to endangered species along the way, but by monitoring and identifying the fish you catch, you can help conservation charities and organisations to monitor river health and other local wildlife.
Signs of otters and minks would be most gratefully received by the RSPB, PTeS or WWT, rare wetland birds could be reported to BTO, and pollution or fish deaths to the local council.
And obviously, if could be a great day out for just 1 or 2 people, like father and daughter, 2 friends, or grandad and grandson.
Peaceful day, great scenery, great conversations – and if you are lucky – a fish or two for supper!
May 29th, 2010 at 7:08 am
that was really awesome?