CASPER, Wyo. – Thrown fishing gear can be dangerous and even fatal to wildlife. Fishing lines, hooks and tackle pose a risk to species such as birds, turtles, frogs, fish and mammals.

This is according to the Wyoming Game & Fish Department which said on May 24 that they recently found a Canada goose at Sloan Lake with a hook embedded in the bird’s body.

“Fortunately, the Hunting and Fishing Department personnel were able to capture this goose and remove the hook,” the department wrote.

Hooks are especially dangerous if they get caught in the mouth.

“When a hook becomes embedded in an animal’s mouth or tongue, it can prevent the animal from eating and eventually lead to starvation,” Game & Fish added.

It is not only the hooks, but also the discarded lines and fishing gear that can be dangerous.

“The fishing line can restrict an animal’s movements and can even prevent a bird from flying,” the department added. “Birds often pick up discarded thread and prey on their nests, which can lead to strangulation or the birds accidentally hanging from the nest. “

Game & Fish urges anglers to properly dispose of used fishing gear. Some places, like Lake Sloan where the Canada geese were rescued, have special receptacles for disposing of items.

“Throwing it on the ground will almost guarantee that a wild animal will come in contact with it at some point,” Game & Fish said.

People should also pick up discarded fishing gear if they come across it.

“Please help keep the fishing grounds clean and prevent damage to Wyoming wildlife.”

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