Our opinion at Hunt Fish Trek is that every recreational and sports anglers should practice the following guidelines:

• Adheres to regulations. A responsible angler always has a valid recreational angling permit; adheres to regulations; uses legal roads and tracks when accessing fishing areas; and reports illegal activities such as environmental damage and pollution.
• Negates harm to fish. A responsible angler handles all species in a way that ensures their best chance of survival; quickly and humanely kills retained fish to ensure the least amount of suffering; and uses equipment and tackle that minimise stress and injury to fish.
• Gathers information. A responsible angler seeks information on the status of marine resources and the impacts of angling on species; embraces recommendations from informed researchers and fishery managers; and records details of their catch.
• Leaves the area in a better state. A responsible angler disposes of fishing line and plastics appropriately, leaving the environment and fishing area in the same or a better condition than when he or she arrived.
• Encourages best practice. A responsible angler does not sell fish; collects bait with the minimum disturbance to the environment; and acts responsibly when exposed to activities that will negatively affect the conservation of marine resources.
• Role model to others. A responsible angler is a role model to other anglers and leads by example; educates others – especially younger anglers – about sustainable fishing practices and is considerate of other legitimate marine users.

“The Responsible Angler: guidelines for responsible recreational fishing in South Africa” can be downloaded here.