Ethics and Conservation Guidelines
• Promotes ethical behavior in the use of aquatic resources.
• Values and respects the aquatic environment and all living things in it.
• Avoids spilling, and never dumps any pollutants on land or in the water.
• Disposes of all trash, including worn-out lines, leaders, and hooks 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 treating other anglers, boaters, and property owners with courtesy and respect.
• 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.
• Carefully handles and releases all fish that are unwanted or prohibited by regulation, as well as other animals that are accidentally hooked.
• Uses tackle and techniques which minimize harm to fish when engaging in catch-and-release angling.
