When Pigs Go Fishing

by Kevin Patton

This isn't an article about jig trailers nor about fishermen who munch a bag of pork rinds while enjoying their favorite sport. It's about pigs who fish....the two-legged kind.

It might just be me getting cranky in my old age or maybe I'm just more appreciative of nature now that I have "matured." But, a recent trip to an area lake illustrated a disturbing side of our sport.

I came across an injured goose, one of many that I've seen, that had been unfortunate enough to become entangled in a gob of fishing line left behind by some careless slob.

The damage to the animal's wing prohibited flying and the line was so tight that both its legs were nearly severed. Every attempt to get to its feet and walk was a struggle. To see the result for the goose click:  Video (slow download)

Some of these animals become adept at trying to survive, but many die a slow death as they struggle to endure harsh winters and stiff competition for food. Their handicap undoubtedly leads to the starvation of many and healthy animals often hasten the process by unmercifully picking on them.

Over the years, I've seen one-legged waterfowl and many with damaged wings or fishing hooks stuck in their bodies. I have chastised a number of kids and two "adults" who were amusing themselves by throwing rocks at waterfowl or trying to capture them in nets.

I realize that a few less ducks and geese in the world is no great ecological disaster. Inflicting needless suffering on these animals gives our sport a black eye, not to mention the disgraceful example it sets for a younger generation of anglers.

You don't have to be a tree-hugger or member of P.E.T.A. to cringe when you see one of the unfortunate victims of trash left behind.

In an increasingly polluted world, it is unsightly, unnecessary, and can get you fined if you're caught leaving garbage behind for animals to ingest or become entangled.

In addition, fishing line discarded into the water can ruin trolling and outboard motor seals.

We have a wonderful legacy of hunting in this country. If you want to hunt and/or eat waterfowl, harvest some and enjoy the tradition.

What we don't need is any more pigs who fish.