Going fishing? Top tips to help keep plastic out of our ocean
As we look forward to the Matariki long weekend, we’d like to share a reminder about how you can prevent plastic pollution while out fishing.
Did you know that plastic makes up more than 60% of the litter in our waterways? Since 1 November 2025, the Sustainable Coastlines Litter Intelligence programme has counted more than 20,000 pieces of litter across 87 beach and freshwater surveys. 62% of these were made of plastic and over 800 were associated with fishing activity, including fishing line, nets, rope, buoys, and other fishing gear.
The potential harm caused by marine plastic pollution extends to fisheries, aquaculture, human health, and marine ecosystems. Plastic products, such as nylon fishing nets and line, are harmful because they are extremely persistent in the environment. Lost or abandoned fishing gear – known as ‘ghost gear’ – can continue to fish and trap animals, entangle and potentially kill marine life, smother habitat, and act as a hazard to navigation. Other impacts of marine plastic pollution include ingestion, transfer of invasive species and toxins, and beach fouling.
The good news is that you can help to minimise future harm by understanding how to prevent avoidable losses of fishing gear.
Research suggests that gear maintenance is the most effective way to prevent gear loss overboard, along with training crew to handle both active and end-of-life gear. It's also important to ensure that losses are reported to relevant authorities, which is why mandatory reporting requirements are in place.
The Marine Protection Rules Part 170 prohibits any discharge of plastic waste, with few exceptions. While out fishing, ensure you have access to bins or receptacles for securely stowing any plastic waste on board – including gear that's not in use. Pre-trip briefings are a good way to make sure everyone understands the important role they play in keeping plastics out of the water.
We encourage commercial operators to update their Maritime Transport Operator Plan, and if applicable, garbage management plan, to document loss prevention measures and gear loss-reporting channels. Owners and masters must ensure their crew both understand and adhere to the plan.
Some commercial and recreational operators are also required to have garbage management placards in place, among other responsibilities. If you need help meeting this requirement, you're welcome to order free placard stickers via the link below.