Anglers in Bahrain are being urged to enjoy their sport in safety and take better care to ensure that their discarded fishing tackle does not harm the environment, marine and other wildlife.
Hidd Police Station’s head Colonel Dr Osama Bahar stated that fishermen should take steps to ensure their wellbeing and that of people around them ... and to cast their lines in permitted areas only.
Speaking on the Interior Ministry’s Al Aman social media programme, he hopes people will hook on to his message. “The sea is a blessing and its heritage is not only a source of goodness, but also a symbol of Bahrain itself,” he said. “If you’re going fishing, take a moment to protect yourself.
“Stay away from industrial facilities, and if you see a restricted area, such as a military zone, keep your distance and do not approach them.
“Even if you are fishing in permitted areas, do not leave waste behind, especially anything made of plastic, as it is harmful to marine and other wildlife.”
Lost fishing gear causes environmental harm, including pollution, threats to wildlife and risks to human safety.
Experts emphasise the need for anglers to adopt more responsible practices and carefully manage their equipment to mitigate these impacts.
Specific issues highlighted include lead poisoning, plastic pollution, birds incorporating lost fishing gear into their nests and ingestion by animals. Secondary issues such as algal blooms continue to cause concern and a recent survey revealed that it had become known for anglers to catch fish already entangled in lost fishing gear.
Fishing in Bahrain is strictly regulated to conserve marine resources, requiring adherence to specific seasons, gear restrictions, and licensing, with recent regulations focusing on sustainable practices and stricter enforcement by the Coastguard.
All fishing boats require a licence from the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry, and a valid ID or passport must be carried at all times.
In terms of safety, the authorities’ highly-recommend fishing in groups rather than alone, especially when fishing from rocky areas.
Those who fish onboard vessels should ensure that all necessary equipment is available, including life jackets, radios and fire extinguishers, and to check the weather conditions for the day before sailing out to sea.
During summer, fishermen should ensure they have sufficient water to avoid risk of dehydration and heat stroke.
Col Dr Bahar urged anglers to not only stick to recommended fishing areas, but to avoid fishing from bridges at all times, for their own safety, and that of others.
“Many incidents and problems occur because somebody was fishing from above on a bridge, while boats were passing by underneath,” he said.
“No matter what time of day it is, do not fish on a bridge. Do not assume that just because it is night time that no one will pass.
“You never know, somebody might be driving a boat below you in the dark of the night.
“One careless act could cost somebody their health, whether it is the person fishing or the one driving, or both. One moment of negligence could also hurt someone on a jet ski.
“Only fish in designated areas, and do not risk your well-being and that of others.”
In case of a maritime-related emergency, fishermen should request assistance by calling the Emergency Call Centre at 999 or the Coastguard at 994.
When calling, clearly state the nature of the emergency and the location as accurately as possible.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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