Eagle Claw® Encourages Anglers to Walk the Bioline®

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Matt Gray

Marketing Manager

(720) 941-8777

Eagle Claw® Encourages Anglers to Walk the Bioline®

DENVER (May 13, 2011) - Rod and reel anglers of all kinds are connected by a common thread, literally, in that they rely on fishing line as their link between man and fish. Nylon monofilament, ever since first coming on the fishing scene in the mid-1930s, has grown to become the predominant line type of choice because of its affordability, strength and durability.

In fact, monofilament line is so durable that scientists say it can remain in the environment for as long as 600 years. With that said, there's probably not a fisherman out there who hasn't lost a fish or a favorite lure because of having become entangled in old fishing line snags underwater. The reality is that our country's 30 million anglers, age 16 and older, who spend an average of 17 days per year fishing, use a lot of fishing line.

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Fortunately, leaders in the recreational fishing industry have always been the ones to keep the environment and tomorrow's anglers in mind, and that is exactly why Eagle Claw® Fishing Tackle Co. proudly offers bioline®, a true 100 percent biodegradable premium fishing line that was born from the medical industry. Bioline is engineered to retain its strength and durability for 10-12 months of use, and then completely degrade in water or on land within five years.

"Bioline has all of the performance properties of monofilament - outstanding abrasion and knot strength, and the clarity of fluorocarbon - but is highly more environment friendly," said Chris Russell, Marketing Director at Wright & McGill Co. "Fishermen themselves have always been this sport's greatest advocates for doing the right thing to pass forward the legacy of fishing, and fishermen really 'get it' as to why biodegradable fishing line is a big deal."

Bioline is made from a special formula of biodegradable polymers, resulting in the earth-friendly alternative to nylon because it does breakdown so much faster to become a simple combination of carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O) and biomass. The degradation process starts at the surface of the line, with microorganisms breaking down and digesting bioline with the aid of sunlight and moisture.

Bioline begins to lose its tensile strength in 10-12 months of use. As its tensile strength deteriorates, it becomes much less a nuisance to all who enjoy the aquatic environment, including wildlife and anglers.

Of all anglers, crappie fishermen in particular especially benefit from biodegradable fishing line because they spend the majority of their pursuit of the species in and around cover, especially submerged wood. Hardwood brushpiles can provide good crappie habitat for years and years, but the most popular ones can end up a mess through an accumulation of snagged and broken-off lines over time.

"Without a doubt, old fishing line in the water is our number one nuisance in how a lot of us fish for the big slabs here in Mississippi," said crappie guide Bo Hudson of Jackson. "When we're long-line trolling over or near brush with several lines out, it can get ugly in a hurry upon encountering snagged lines down there. Who wouldn't want biodegradable fishing lines to become the standard for our sport?"

Mike Taylor, a fishing guide from Okmulgee, Okla., shared similar thoughts. "I have favorite brushpiles I have to avoid with my novice-angling clients because they get hung up so bad on all the previous break-offs down there," he said. "It's a lot easier to get a lure, hook or fish free from a branch or stump than it is from snarled fishing line. I love the thought of my brushpiles being self-cleaning through use of bioline."

Another reason bioline is a natural for crappie anglers is because of available line sizes and filler spool capacities. Bioline comes in 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 lb. test, and each size is sold on a spool containing 225 yards. As a general rule, crappie reels are small and hold less than 100 yards of line, meaning a spool of bioline is good for two or three fill-ups. Bioline retails for around $11.99 per spool.

Bioline packaging is engineered to be air and water tight for use in storing the unused portion in between refills. It is recommended the package be kept in a cool and dry place.

"Today's reels perform best with fresh line and their spools filled to the maximum level, so anglers in-the-know are already changing their line on a frequent basis throughout the season," said Russell. "Since we guarantee bioline to retain 100 percent of its strength for the average use of 10 months, this Eagle Claw product is the perfect answer for anglers interested in doing their part for the environment. Bioline is a first-class line and worthy of consideration for any angler and all kinds of fishing."

Eagle Claw got its start in the late 1920s and has always been a leader in innovative, environmentally friendly products that serve the present needs of current anglers while also preserving the planet for future generations to enjoy. In addition to bioline, other "Fish Green®" products in the Eagle Claw lineup include non-lead weights and sinkers, circle hooks, barbless hooks and degradable packaging.

For more information about Eagle Claw bioline, visit www.biolinefishing.com. For more information about Eagle Claw, visit www.eagleclaw.com.

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EAGLE CLAW® BIOLINE® FAQS

Does bioline® look, feel and fish differently than monofilament?
No it doesn't. In fact you'll find it performs just like any premium monofilament. This is a quality fishing line that has a construction proven by the medical industry. The biggest difference from mono is that bioline degrades in five years; monofilament can stay in the environment for up to 600 years.

What line weight does bioline come in?
Bioline comes in 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 lb. test, and on 225 yard filler spools.

What causes bioline to degrade within 5 years?
Bioline is made from a special formula, resulting in the earth-friendly alternative to nylon because it does breakdown so much faster to become a simple combination of carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O) and biomass. The degradation process starts at the surface of the line, with microorganisms breaking down and digesting bioline with the aid of sunlight and moisture.

So does bioline left on its original spool begin the degrading process as soon as it's opened the first time?
No, as long as the spool is returned to its original packaging and stored properly (see next question).

What is the shelf life of a spool of bioline?
Bioline stored in its original air and water tight packaging has a normal shelf life of other fishing lines when stored in a cool, dry and dark place.

Is bioline as strong as traditional monofilament?
Bioline is tested and rated true to its test strength, meaning that if it is rated as 12 lb. test then it is going to break in a straight-pull test at not less than 12 pounds and not more than 13 pounds.

What is the recommended knot for bioline?
We like the Palomar just because it's a proven strong knot. However, any of your favorite knots will work just fine with bioline.

What is bioline's knot strength?
The weakest point on any fishing line is the knot, but we've found bioline's knot strength is 20-30% higher, pound per pound, than traditional monofilaments. For example, if a knot breaks on monofilament at around 5-6 pounds, bioline's will test out to 8-9 pounds.

What is bioline's abrasion resistance?
Bioline has great abrasion resistance properties, fairing as well as any monofilament against encounters with obstacles like rocks, stumps, snags, etc.

Does bioline absorb water like traditional monofilament?
Bioline actually sheds water instead of absorbing it.

Does bioline float, suspend or sink in the water?
Bioline does not float or sink; it has a tendency to suspend in water.

How much stretch does bioline have?
Bioline stretches the same as monofilament, around 25%. But unlike mono, bioline will rebound to its original form with all of its tensile strength intact.

How much memory does bioline have?
Bioline is a supple and smooth fishing line. It has "medium" memory, coming off the spool with ease. Time on a reel is a fishing line's worst enemy, so bioline's 10-12 month fishing life is a good thing for overall line and casting performance.

Does bioline come in any color other than clear?
Bioline only comes in the most popular of all colors - low visibility clear.

How does UV light exposure affect bioline?
Bioline has a much higher ultraviolet light resistance than mono; UV light is among mono's worst enemies.

How much does bioline cost?
Prices vary according among retailers, but suggested retail is $11.99 per 225-yard filler spool.

Can bioline be recycled?
Bioline can go into fishing line recycle boxes, but it won't be remanufactured into bioline. All fishing lines should be discarded properly and responsibly.

Can bioline be used in fresh and saltwater?
Bioline has the same properties and benefits in saltwater as in freshwater. Simply manage and care for this line with the same good common sense you would use for any others.

Does bioline biodegrade if snagged "above" water or only if underwater?
Bioline degradation occurs in the outdoor environment regardless of whether it's above or below the water.

Can fish see bioline underwater?
Bioline is a low-visibility line with a refractive index close to that of fluorocarbon. Its physical structure allows light to pass through the line, instead of reflect.

How do cold temperatures affect bioline?
Our extreme tests show it to remain flexible and strong regardless of cold. We also get positive testimonials from ice fishermen about its cold-weather performance. Bioline's material simply works well in cold, which is the opposite of nylon.

How often should I respool bioline?
Again, common sense prevails here. Obviously because of the bioline's properties, you'll want to respool any reel loaded with the line at least every 10-12 months. However, a high majority of avid anglers are known to respool whatever their line choices as frequently as every trip or two. Otherwise, examine the line for excessive nicks and/or wear and respool accordingly.

How do bioline's diameters compare to other lines?
Line diameters run the gamut according to brands, materials and function. Bioline's diameters aren't as small as the "super lines," but fall well within the range of other premium fishing lines to deliver the ultimate in casting and fish-landing performance.

Can line conditioners be used on bioline?
Line conditioners and dressings are great for bioline; they do not impact strength or accelerate the degradation process.

How can I distinguish bioline from other lines on the market?
By common appearance, you can't visually distinguish bioline from other low-vis lines. Therefore, look for the Eagle Claw bioline "Fish Green®" packaging to make sure you have the best biodegradable line on the market.

Where can I purchase bioline?
Bioline is available at many online stores and retail locations throughout the country. Wal-Mart is a valued retail partner in the southeast region of the country.

Is bioline guaranteed?
Absolutely. Bioline is guaranteed to perform to its stated specifications for the first 10-12 months of use. If you are not satisfied with bioline or it does not meet its stated performance specifications, Eagle Claw will replace your line. Simply mail your original receipt and unused portion of bioline to us and we'll send you a new replacement spool free of charge.

To ensure performance, remember to change your line every 10-12 months.