Fishing is a popular recreational activity that many people enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, it’s important to know how to handle and release fish properly. Not only is it important for the fish's survival, but it’s also a responsible way to preserve the species and their habitats.
Here are some tips to help you handle and release fish properly:
-
Wet your hands: Before handling the fish, it’s important to wet your hands so that you don’t remove any protective slime from the fish’s skin. This slime is crucial to the fish’s health and helps to protect it from disease and parasites.
-
Use a landing net: When possible, use a landing net to remove the fish from the water. This helps to reduce the amount of time that the fish is out of the water and can also prevent damage to the fish’s fins or scales.
-
Support the fish: When you’re holding the fish, make sure to support its weight and hold it horizontally. Don’t squeeze or squeeze too hard, as this can harm the fish and potentially kill it.
-
Keep the fish in the water: If you need to take a picture or examine the fish, try to keep it in the water as much as possible. If you need to take it out of the water, make sure to hold it as briefly as possible.
-
Don’t remove the hook: If the fish has been hooked, don’t try to remove the hook yourself. Instead, use a pair of pliers or a hook remover to gently remove the hook while the fish is still in the water.
-
Revive the fish: If the fish is exhausted, you can revive it by gently moving it back and forth in the water. This helps to restore its energy and get its gills moving again.
-
Release the fish: Once the fish is revived, it’s time to release it back into the water. Make sure to let the fish go slowly so that it can adjust to the water temperature and pressure.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you handle and release fish properly. Not only will you be doing your part to protect these species, but you’ll also be able to enjoy fishing without feeling guilty about harming the fish you catch.
Remember, fishing is not just about catching fish, it’s about enjoying the outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and being a responsible angler. So make sure to take care of the fish you catch and release them back into the water unharmed.