In the Great Lakes, we have access to one of the greatest freshwater resources in the world. With this freshwater resource comes an abundance of life, especially in and around the Maumee River. In early spring, the walleye run signals the first signs of life returning to the Maumee after a cold winter. As thousands of walleye journey to spawning grounds, thousands of anglers also journey to the Maumee to cast a chance at reeling in a Northwest Ohio delicacy. The celebration of the return of the walleye is not met without hazard. Given the sheer amount of fishing line being used during this period, there is an abundance of fishing line that is lost or discarded improperly. This stray fishing line now poses to catch something it never intended, other wildlife. If you are planning on going out to fish this year, you can check out our map to view all current locations of bins to properly dispose of fishing line. If you want to sponsor, host, or adopt a bin to help fishing line attract only its intended target, follow this link.
Fishing line is an entanglement hazard for wildlife that depends on the Maumee River. One line disposed of improperly can wreak havoc on the vitality of our streams. This is why even during a time of celebration and fishing, it is critical that fishing line be disposed of properly. Fishing line bins are a great way to reduce the impact of fishing in the Maumee River. All fishing line returned to Partners for Clean Streams will be sent to the Berkley Conservation Institute where they will be recycled into fish habitat structures, park benches, and so much more!