Fishing Line Recycling Stations

Save The River’s Fishing Line Recycling Sites (FLRS) program is a critical initiative dedicated to keeping the St. Lawrence River free of one of its most persistent and dangerous pollutants: discarded monofilament fishing line. Through the installation of easy-to-use recycling bins at high-traffic fishing spots, we provide a sustainable alternative to the landfill—or worse, the river itself.

Why It Matters
Traditional fishing line is made of high-density plastic that can take up to 600 years to decompose in a freshwater environment. When left in the water or on the shore, it creates a “ghost” threat that impacts the river long after an angler has gone home.

Wildlife Protection: Monofilament is nearly invisible underwater. Birds like loons, ospreys, and herons, as well as fish and mammals, can become entangled, leading to injury, starvation, or death.

Vessel Safety: Discarded line is a major hazard for boaters. It can easily wrap around propellers or intake valves, causing significant engine damage and costly repairs.

Plastic Pollution: By collecting and recycling this plastic, we prevent it from breaking down into harmful microplastics that enter the food chain.

How the Program Works
Our FLRS units are specialized, outdoor collection bins constructed from durable PVC pipe.

Collect: Anglers deposit used monofilament line into the bins.

Clean: Save The River volunteers regularly monitor the sites, removing any hooks, lures, or lead weights.

Recycle: The clean line is shipped to specialized recycling facilities—such as the Berkley Conservation Institute—where it is melted down into raw plastic pellets.

Repurpose: This recycled material is given a second life as new products, including tackle boxes, fishing spools, and artificial fish habitats.

Community Impact: The Next Generation of Stewards
The success of this program relies on local partnerships. In 2026, we were proud to partner with Fort Drum Cub Scout Troop 26, whose members built 10 brand-new FLRS units. These scouts learned firsthand the importance of environmental stewardship, and their hard work directly expands our reach to 10 new docks and boat launches across the region.

How You Can Help
Look for the Bin: Before you leave the dock, check your gear. If you have tangled line or old spools, look for the white PVC recycling tubes marked with the Save The River logo.

Report a Full Bin: If you notice a site that needs emptying or maintenance, please [Contact Us].

Sponsor a Site: Help us provide the materials for more units by making a donation to our conservation programs.

Note to Anglers: Only monofilament (single-strand) and fluorocarbon lines can be recycled. Please do not place braided line or wire in the recycling bins.