How Are People Harmed by Monofilament?

Boat propellers are frequently fouled with monofilament line. Once entangled the prop may seize up, and a drifting boat can be vulnerable in circumstances like poor weather or heavy currents. Line can also enter bilge pumps, water intake valves, and wrap around the lower unit.

Scuba divers are at risk of entanglement with monofilament line. Several cases are on record when divers panicked and drown after they became entangled. Sunken ships and other artificial reefs popular with both divers and anglers are particularly risky as they quickly become strewn with lengths of line.

Besides being a risk to boaters and divers, discarded monofilament can impact swimmers and wading anglers. Boat passengers have even been hooked by fishing gear hanging from bridges.

People walking and biking along the shoreline can become entangled by line that commonly gets caught around rocks and vegetation.