In a world stricken by climate change and species extinction, we’re today more aware than at any point in history of the damage mankind’s actions and way of life is inflicting upon the natural world. Unfortunately, just as fish are often described as the “forgotten victims on our plate,” they are also not covered by animal welfare laws. It’s a sober fact that fish as a collective species are more exploited than any other animal group. They are killed in bigger numbers than any species and their habitats are being polluted at an alarming rate. YouTube star Zak Catchem has been passionate about anything with scales and a fin longer than he can remember. He believes that in 2021, everybody needs to seriously start talking about fish conservation.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a fisherman, a naturalist, or someone who just enjoys eating fish. Fish conservation is a conversation we all now need to be having,” says Zak Catchem, who made his name through his hugely popular channel “Catch Em All Fishing.” As someone who has always enjoyed fishing with or without a boat and who has highlighted the thrill of shore-based fishing to a new generation, Zak has helped millions of people better understand and appreciate what was once considered a “boring old man hobby.” Part of that process is educating people on the role fishing has in the conservation of fish.
Zak explains, “A common misconception a lot of people have is that anglers are harmful to the fish. That couldn’t be further from the truth. As a rule, fishermen and women love fish. We have spent years studying, understanding, and interacting with them. Ever since I was a young boy, I have kept tanks and dug out ponds to keep and train fish in. It’s in every fisherman’s interest to conserve this beautiful species and I think the rest of the world needs to understand that fish conservation is a topic that needs to be put on the agenda.”
Each year, trillions of wild fish are caught and killed by fish farming. That’s more than all other animals combined. Super trawlers with their huge nets and long lines also kill billions of other non-targeted species. Overfishing is a huge problem, as are the barely visible pieces of plastic that are polluting our seas and rivers and slowly poisoning marine life.
Zak Catchem appeals, “We can all do our bit to create awareness and look for more sustainable and fish-friendly practices if this planet and the ecosystem are to have a future. Fish live underwater and are often overlooked but it’s time we started considering the effect our world is having on theirs.”
