Code Of Angling Ethics

The ILSFA has adopted the following code of ethics and only slightly modified it to be more specific to our sport. Origin of the code: The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has adopted a "Code of Angling Ethics" to implement the public education strategy required under the NMFS-specific Recreational Fishery Resources Conservation Plan. The code, developed in cooperation with a wide range of constituent groups was approved on February 11, 1999, and published in the Federal Register on February 18, 1999. The Code, as outlined below, is an effort by the ILSFA to help foster responsible resource management, as well as attitudes and actions amongst our members, participants and partners.

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The Ethical ILSFA Member / Angler:

Promotes, through education and practice, ethical behavior in the use of aquatic and beach resources.

Values and respects the aquatic and beach environments and all living things in and on them.

Avoids spilling, and never dumps, any pollutants, such as gasoline and oil, into the aquatic or beach environments.

Disposes of all trash, including worn-out lines, leaders, and hooks, in appropriate containers, and helps to keep fishing sites litter-free.

Takes all precautionary measures necessary to prevent the spread of exotic plants and animals, including live baitfish, into non-native habitats.

Learns and obeys angling and boating regulations, and treats other anglers, boaters, and property owners with courtesy and respect, and lends assistance to them whenever and wherever it may be needed.

Fosters an overall attitude of good sportsmanship and camaraderie towards other anglers, boaters, and property owners.

Respects property rights, and never trespasses on private lands or waters.
Keeps no more fish than needed for consumption, and never wastefully discards fish that are retained.

Practices conservation by carefully handling and releasing alive all fish that are unwanted or prohibited by regulation, as well as other animals that may become hooked or entangled accidentally.

Uses tackle and techniques which minimize harm to fish when engaging in "catch and release" angling.

Holds in high regard the virtues of sportsmanship, honesty and integrity and exercises them while engaged in the sport and when making record claims.

Always acts to positively promote and advocate the sport of Land-Based Shark Fishing.