By Jarrah Small.

There’s no doubt that the Noosa River in the Noosa Biosphere Reserve is a much-loved ecosystem, bringing joy to many people with its diverse wildlife and natural beauty. However, the increasing human pressure on the river is taking a toll on the wildlife and their habitat. The rise in recreational fishing, especially during the summer school holidays, is having a profound impact on the wildlife on the Noosa River due to some recreational fishers behavior and discarded fishing line and tackle.

As a result of my fieldwork on the Noosa River, it has become evident that many species of wildlife are being impacted by fishing line and tackle due to two main reasons. Firstly, discarded fishing line and tackle impacts wildlife whether intentional or accidental where lines are snagged in trees, caught on the edge of structures, or snagged on rocks. Secondly, there is an increase in birds that are getting hooked or tangled in fishing line and tackle either mid-flight as they leave trees or from swooping baited lines as fishers cast out and in some cases lines are deliberately cast onto animals like pelicans.

Why is fishing line and tackle a concern to wildlife?

Fishing line takes over 600 years to decompose, posing a long-term threat to wildlife if not removed. Once underwater, fishing line is hard to spot, making it easy for diving birds like Cormorants and Darters to become entangled while hunting for fish. Fishing lines and tackle snagged in trees also poses many risks, with hooks often left dangling, leading to various wildlife species getting hooked and entangled.  Many species including Cormorants, Corellas, Peewees, Flying Foxes, Currawongs,  continue to be rescued along the Noosa River.

Despite these challenges, there are actions we can take to protect wildlife and their habitats. Responsible fishing practices are crucial to minimise the impact to wildlife.

How to reduce wildlife injuries

1. Watch your line, don’t leave it unattended.
2. Check for birds flying overhead before casting.
3. Avoid fishing near bird feeding/nesting areas.
4. Check for low trees nearby before casting.
5. Leave no trace – Leave your fishing spot cleaner than you found it. Take all your rubbish with you.
6. Do not feed seabirds and other wildlife.
7. Out of the water, do not leave baited hooks on the end of unattended lines.

What to do if you accidentally hook an unintended animal:

1. Do Not Cut the Line: Never cut your line and let the animal fly away.
2. Reel In Slowly and Calmly: Gradually reel the animal towards you.
3. Handle Gently: When close enough, safely bring the animal out of the water being mindful that some seabirds can stretch their necks out and cause eye injuries.
4. Reduce Tension: Let out enough slack to prevent extra pressure on the hook.
5. Calm the Animal: If possible, cover the animal’s head with a towel.
6. Minimise Injury: Handle the animal gently to avoid further injury.
7. Assess the injury: If unsure of the extent of the injury seek professional assistance.
8. Seek Professional Help: Call a local wildlife rescue organisation for advice or transport the injured animal straight to a vet.
9. Transport to Vet: Contain the animal in a box or something similar with a towel/cloth in the bottom and cover the box. Keep the animal away from domestic animals and in a quiet spot.
10. Release the Animal: Once the animal is free from the line and tackle and is not injured, release it immediately.

Report injured wildlife

To report sick or injured wildlife, contact local wildlife rescue organisations or veterinarians for assistance.

By taking these steps, we can help preserve the Noosa River’s natural beauty and protect the wildlife for future generations.