The Hague launches campaign to reduce fish suffering during recreational fishing
The Municipality of The Hague is urging anglers to reconsider their hobby, as new research confirms fish feel pain. A city-wide campaign encourages ethical fishing practices to minimize animal suffering in local waterways.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Campaign Name | 'Does fishing hurt? What do you think? Animal suffering is not on the hook' |
| Municipality | The Hague |
| Target Audience | Recreational anglers |
| Fish Species Mentioned | Roach, bream, pike |
| Key Message | Fish feel pain; avoid barbed hooks to reduce suffering |
| Fishing Rules | Requires permit, only in permitted areas, avoid dune waters and harbors |
| Campaign Duration | Coming weeks (posters across the city) |
| Source of Research | City ecologist Marcus (Municipality of The Hague) |
The Municipality of The Hague is responsible for managing public spaces, including waterways, and promoting animal welfare within the city. This campaign aligns with its role in raising awareness about ethical treatment of animals in recreational activities.
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Think before you go fishing
Do you enjoy fishing? Then it’s important to know that fish feel pain. The Municipality of The Hague is therefore launching a campaign against animal suffering.
Over the coming weeks, you’ll see posters around the city with the message: ‘Does fishing hurt? What do you think? Animal suffering is not on the hook.’
Fishing in lakes, canals, and ditches
Many people enjoy the city’s waterways. They swim, sail, walk, or cycle along them. Some residents also enjoy fishing. The Hague’s lakes, canals, and ditches are home to many fish species, such as roach, bream, and pike.
Fishing causes pain
Unfortunately, fishing is painful for fish. The hook creates a wound in the fish’s mouth, which heals very slowly. Fishing can cause so much damage that a fish dies—even if you release it back into the water.
Fish don’t show emotions
Like other animals, fish feel pain. Many people assume they don’t, because fish don’t display facial expressions. They have no eyelids and show no visible emotions. However, research shows that fish do experience pain and stress,’ says Marcus, city ecologist at the Municipality of The Hague.
What can you do?
If you still want to fish, avoid using barbed hooks. They cause real harm. This way, you can prevent animal suffering. The ‘What do you think?’ campaign encourages people to reflect on how to treat fish and other animals with care.
Fishing rules
Follow these rules when fishing:
- obtain a fishing permit first
- fish only in permitted areas. Check the VISplanner for locations
- do not fish in dune waters, reeds, or harbors