Recycling

Recycling and Proper Disposal of Fishing Line and Soft Plastics


At Doug’s Custom Lures, we know that great fishing starts with healthy waterways. Recycling and properly disposing of fishing line and soft plastic baits is one of the easiest ways to protect our fishing spots and the wildlife that depend on them.


Why Recycling Matters

Improperly discarded fishing line and soft plastics can cause serious harm to fish, birds, and other animals. They also tarnish the beauty of the natural spaces we love. By recycling, we’re preserving these spaces for future generations.

  • Fishing Line: Durable but dangerous, discarded lines can entangle wildlife and damage habitats.

  • Soft Plastics: These baits can be ingested by fish and other animals, leading to health issues or even death.

The "Don't Trash Nature" Program

We’re proud supporters of the "Don’t Trash Nature" initiative. This program empowers anglers to make a difference by cleaning up their local waterways and sharing their progress using the hashtags #DontTrashNature and #QwikCatch. Check out Don't Trash Nature to get involved.


Recycling Made Easy

The Keep America Fishing “Pitch It” campaign was born out of a response to a proposed Maine law to ban non-biodegradable soft plastic lures. Today, it’s a national effort to reduce litter and encourage proper recycling of fishing gear. Learn more at Pledge to Pitch It.

  1. Fishing Line Recycling:

    • Drop off used fishing line at recycling bins found at marinas and tackle shops.

    • Use mail-in recycling programs like Berkley’s if bins are unavailable.

  2. Soft Plastic Bait Disposal:

    • Participate in recycling programs run by bait manufacturers.

    • Store used baits in reusable bags to cut down on waste.

    • Where recycling isn’t available, dispose of them in the trash rather than in the water.

  3. Prevent Littering:

    • Carry a small container to collect trash and used baits while fishing.

    • Volunteer for clean-up events in your area.

Small Actions, Big Impact

Your choices matter. Recycling fishing line and soft plastics helps protect wildlife, maintain healthy ecosystems, and keep our waterways beautiful. Together, we can make a lasting difference.


Let’s "Pitch It" and protect what we love.

Link to the Keep America Fishing Pitch It recycling campaign
Link to the qwikfishing.com Don't Trash Nature campaign page
Link to the qwikfishing.com Don't Trash Nature campaign page
Link to the qwikfishing.com Don't Trash Nature campaign page
Link to the qwikfishing.com Don't Trash Nature campaign page