What measures should be taken to protect river ecosystems during fishing activities?

Avoiding littering is essential in protecting river ecosystems during fishing activities because litter can harm aquatic life and degrade water quality. When trash such as plastic, food wrappers, or fishing gear is left along the banks or in the water, it can entangle fish and wildlife, contaminate habitats, and disrupt the natural balance of the ecosystem. Maintaining clean, litter-free environments helps preserve the health of the waters and the organisms that inhabit them, ensuring that the ecosystem can thrive.

In contrast, using live bait, fishing during the spawning season, and ignoring riparian zones can negatively impact river ecosystems. Live bait can introduce non-native species that may disrupt local populations, fishing during spawning can lead to declines in fish populations, and ignoring riparian zones removes important buffer areas that protect aquatic environments from erosion and pollution. Thus, avoiding littering is a fundamental practice that supports the sustainability of river ecosystems during fishing activities.