‘Keep Hookers off the Pier!’ Says Banner in Support of Fishing Ban

PETA Writes in Support of Council Member’s Proposal to Protect Pelicans Near Naples Pier

For Immediate Release:
August 3, 2018

Contact:
Megan Wiltsie 202-483-7382

A massive PETA banner proclaiming, “Keep Hookers off the Pier—Ban Fishing!” will be displayed over the newly reopened Naples Pier on Saturday, courtesy of a plane that will fly over the pier for two hours:

When:    Saturday, August 4, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.

Where:    Naples Pier

PETA has also sent a letter in support of Naples City Council Member Linda Penniman’s announcement that she intends to propose a ban on fishing off the pier at the council’s August 13 meeting, citing the damage that fishing hooks inflict on pelicans. A local wildlife hospital reported taking in half the number of injured birds as usual during the 11 months the pier was closed for repairs.

“Discarded fishing tackle is notorious for injuring birds, turtles, and other wildlife,” says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. “PETA’s banner will urge the city to ban fishing and protect all aquatic animals, including the fish who are hooked by their sensitive mouths, yanked from their homes, and left to suffocate slowly.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—notes that fish have unique personalities, can recognize human faces, and can retain memories and think ahead. Their mouths are full of nerve endings, and those who are released after they’ve been hooked often die from the resulting injuries and stress.

PETA’s letter to Penniman is available upon request. For more information, please visit PETA.org.