Even the sportsman's favorite pastime can enjoy a green upgrade with eco-friendly tackle and tips for angling stewardship.

Each year, over 10 million people take to the lakes and rivers for recreational fishing, and that's only in the United States. Although depletion of world fish and seafood supplies is an important issue for the health of ocean ecosystems and global food supplies, it doesn't mean that you can't enjoy some quality time out in nature with a rod and a reel. It's  important is that people learn to become responsible anglers who respect both the fish and the environment, which is exactly the mission of an online company called Green Tackle.

Being a sustainable angler involves much more than employing a catch and release policy. As Green Tackle states on their web site, "much of today's fishing tackle contains toxic lead or non-biodegradable materials such as plastics and rubber. These types of materials can have catastrophic, far-reaching impacts on our health and our environment."

The site lists hundreds of products unique to recreational fishing that many people would never even have thought of as environmentally harmful, but as we are learning every day, even common products are often associated with a huge carbon footprint as well as containing materials that are toxic when discarded.

One of the coolest products on the site is the Bioline Biodegradable Fishing Line, a 100% biodegradable fishing line; the environmentally friendly alternative to monofilament and fluorocarbon fishing line.

Another interesting product that you might want to keep in mind for the angler in your life is the SAFE Angling Kit offered through Recycled Fish, a national movement of anglers who live and promote a lifestyle of stewardship both on and off the water. Every kit is packed with lead-free weights, biodegradable molded lures, circle and cam action hooks. Plus, you’ll find an illustrated knot tying guide, fishing and stewardship tips, and instructions (with photos) on how to use everything in the kit.

Although we might think that sustainable fishing and protection of lakes, rivers and oceans is a problem for commercial seafood companies and the EPA, it's important to realize that the way we recreate in these bodies of water is just as important.

If you enjoy fishing, either as a recreational activity or competitively, check out the innovative products that are offered at Green Tackle and consider making some changes to decrease your impact on the waterways that provide you with so much fun season after season.