Fishing remains a popular outdoor activity in the United States. As many as 54.5 million Americans fish annually, including fly-fishing in rivers and off-shore fishing on the open ocean. In some locations, jurisdictions enforce catch-and-release fishing methods. Therefore, anglers should familiarize themselves with the basics.
Catch-and-release fishing involves releasing fish back into the water immediately after reeling it. Anglers practice catch-and-release for several reasons. Some seek to catch specific species within certain weight ranges. Others only seek the thrill of catching something. Moreover, some municipalities and other authorities enforce catch-and-release fishing for conservation.
Releasing a fish immediately after catching it does not always guarantee its survival. However, anglers can employ some best practices to improve the odds. For example, anglers can use circles, barbless, and hooks with crimped barbs, which they can easily remove. The fish spends less time out of the water and is less likely to suffer an injury from the hook. Moreover, some municipalities forbid the use of barbed hooks.
Anglers must also pack equipment that can handle the fish they desire to catch. If a line snaps with the fish on the hook, its chances for survival drop. Anglers can also invest in tools designed to support catch-and-release fishing, including rubber landing mats and dehookers.
In addition to packing the right gear, anglers must handle fish properly. Avoid fighting a fish to exhaustion, and do not expose catches to air for long periods, especially over 60 seconds. Humans should avoid touching the fish with dry hands, especially the gills and eyes.
Other best practices include supporting the fish’s weight along the length of its body and helping tired fish regain strength by holding them in the water, facing the current, until they swim away on their own.
