herein we describe fishing gear having a degradable component comprising a polyhydroxyalkanoate polymer , as well as methods for ensuring that such gear has reduced functionality after becoming derelict . derelict fishing gear has a negative economic and ecological impact , and thus it is advantageous to use gear that will lose theability to catch and retain fish over time . incorporating a degradable apparatus into such gear provides an effective , economical solution . suitable degradable components are described herein .