Clear Your Gear is a collaborative effort among Sanibel-Captiva conservation organizations to reduce the amount of monofilament line and fishing gear left in our environment, which is often detrimental to wildlife.
It was established in 2014 by seven Sanibel-Captiva conservation organizations in response to the observation of ongoing environmental problems and an increase in wildlife injuries caused by monofilament line and other fishing gear.
Earlier this year, city workers installed five new Clear Your Gear stations, which include PVC tube receptacles for discarded fishing line as well as informational signage with QR Code links for SmartPhones. Locations on the island, in addition to 18 along the Sanibel Causeway and seven within the refuge itself, include:
• Bowman’s Beach main beach access
• Bowman’s Beach kayak launch
• Clam Bayou box culvert
• Blind Pass
• City of Sanibel Boat Ramp
• Sanibel Fishing Pier
If you’d like to dispose of your used monofilament and gear at a recycling center, the following locations will properly recycle: The Bait Box, 1041 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel and West Marine locations throughout Lee County.
Should an animal become entangled in fishing line, anglers are asked not to cut the line. First, make sure the animal is restrained; use a large towel or shirt to cover the animal’s head and/or body for protection. Wrap the towel/shirt around the animal quickly and place it in a box or available container. Then, call the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) at 239-472-3644 for further instructions.