Tips for Safe Catch and Release Fishing

In today抯 fishing world, the majority of fish caught from freshwater impoundments are released to swim and fight another day. Catch and release, like recycling, is a good thing and helps to preserve the fishery. To assure that the fish you land has the best chance of survival, certain steps should be followed.

Barbless and circle hooks are preferred by anglers who practice catch and release. Sportsmen who target mountain trout, bonefish and marlin have used them for decades. In addition, artificial lures with single hooks are less harmful to the fish than trebles.

When a bite occurs, set the hook quickly to avoid the chance of gut-hooking. This mishap is also less likely to happen if you hold the fishing rod in hand rather than leaving it unattended in a rod holder. To reduce the chance of stressing and exhausting your quarry, bring it to the boat as quickly as possible. For best results, use tackle and line that抯 adequate enough to retrieve the fish within a reasonable period of time.

It抯 best to land a fish by hand, but should it need to be netted, use a rubber or mesh net, not one made with knotted twine. Abrasive nets can damage the fins, cut the skin and rub away the protective slime coating of fish. Once landed, do not allow the catch to flip-flop on the deck or ground.

Fast and careful hook removal is a big key to survival. Fish should be kept out of the water no longer than you can hold your breath. If possible, it抯 best to remove the hook while the fish is still in the water.
Since that isn抰 practical most of the time, hold the fish tightly around the head and remove the hook by hand or by using needle nose pliers.
Once the fish is ready to be released, place it in the water facing upstream and move it back and forth until it gains composure and begins to struggle. Then, allow it to swim away.

Fish taken from deep water during the summer months, and those that bleed profusely, tend to die shortly after being released. Consider keeping them for a meal if they meet local size and creel requirements.

Handling your catch is as much about protecting yourself as it is the fish. Gloves are recommended to avoid cuts and sharp stab wounds from fins or gills. Fish with teeth should be held securely around the head and care should be taken to keep your fingers away from the mouth.

Free Fishing Seminar: 揌ow to Use Sonar, Down/Side Scan and GPS to Catch Summer Bass, White Perch and Crappie? Jake Bussolini and I will conduct this ninety minute seminar beginning at 6:30 p.m. on July 15th at Gander Mountain, Exit 36, Mooresville, NC. For additional information, call 704 658 0822.

Tips from Capt Gus! If it smells, use it for catfish bait. Catfish eat almost anything, including shrimp, pizza crust, grapes and leftover table scraps. Don抰 be afraid to experiment. You might even catch a big one on a candy gummy worm.