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How to Recycle Fishing Equipment
Rods, reels, tackle, and fishing line. Monofilament recycling via BoatUS/Berkley is the main specialty path; other gear is reuse-focused.
Check local acceptanceQuality reels and rods retain resale value; line recycling is environmental diversion, not a payoutLast reviewed July 31, 2026
Quick answer
Put monofilament in BoatUS Fishing Line Recycling bins at bait shops and ramps; if none are nearby, cut line into short pieces and trash it so wildlife cannot tangle in long strands. Donate or sell usable rods, reels, and tackle. Before you go, confirm that a local recycling center accepts the material in its current condition.
- Recycling route
- Check locally
- Typical value
- Quality reels and rods retain resale value; line recycling is environmental diversion, not a payout
- Donate / take-back
- Available
How to Prepare
- 1Spool loose line into a BoatUS bin bag or sealed container
- 2If trashing line, cut into pieces about 6 inches or shorter
- 3Clean rods and reels; note working vs broken items
- 4Sort lead sinkers separately and follow local rules
- 5Remove hooks from donation tackle when safety requires it
Where to Recycle
- BoatUS Fishing Line Recycling bins (bait shops, piers, ramps)
- Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and outdoor retailers
- Play It Again Sports
- Take Me Fishing and youth education programs
- State fish and wildlife education events
Special Instructions
BoatUS reports thousands of fishing-line recycling bins nationwide; collected line is processed (Berkley Recycling in Spirit Lake, IA is a known destination in program materials). Never leave loose line outdoors. BoatUS notes line can persist for centuries in marine environments; treat that as program guidance. Lead sinkers are being phased down in many waters; check state rules and prefer non-lead alternatives. Rods and reels belong at Play It Again Sports, thrift, or youth/veteran fishing programs when usable.
Environmental Impact
Line recycling and proper trash disposal reduce entanglement injuries to birds and aquatic animals. Reusing tackle avoids new plastics and metals.
Sustainable Alternatives
- Cut and trash line when no bin exists
- Sell vintage reels to collectors
- Repurpose tackle boxes for small-parts storage
Official guidance and resources
Accepted items and drop-off rules can vary by location. Check the destination before you go.
What’s Accepted
Accepted
- Monofilament and similar line for BoatUS bins
- Working rods and reels
- Tackle boxes and lures in safe condition
- Nets and landing gear
- Ice and fly gear when programs want them
Not Accepted
- Loose long strands of line left in the environment
- Illegal gear
- Lead sinkers where local rules ban them
- Severely rusted hooks donated without safety packaging
Donation & Take‑Back Options
Estimated value: Quality reels and rods retain resale value; line recycling is environmental diversion, not a payout
Donation
- Take Me Fishing
- Scout troops
- Veterans fishing programs
- State fish and wildlife education programs
Manufacturer/Retail Take‑Back
Hazardous Components
- Lead fishing weights
- Sharp hooks
FAQs
What if there is no BoatUS bin nearby?
Cut line into short pieces (BoatUS suggests about 6 inches or less) and put it in the trash so animals cannot get tangled in long loops.
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Recycle fishing equipment
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