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• Learn how to play your part in preserving our environment by properly releasing fish 🐟

• 38 dogs were rescued by a fisherman in a Mississippi lake 🐶

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Catch-and-Release Done Right: Tips for Safe and Responsible Fishing

We’ve all heard the phrase "Catch and Release" tossed around in fishing circles, but there’s more to it than just letting a fish go. If you want your release to be as successful as your catch, it pays to know a few essentials about handling, gear, and timing. Let’s dive into some practical tips for releasing fish with care, so they’re ready to swim another day (and maybe even get a little bigger for next season!).

Why Catch-and-Release Matters

Catch-and-release isn’t just about sending fish back to the water – it’s about keeping fish populations healthy. Proper handling can make a big difference to a fish’s survival, especially in heavily fished areas where populations might be under pressure. By doing it right, you’re doing your part to ensure more good fishing days for everyone.

1. Handle Fish Carefully: Wet Hands Are Key

Fish have a protective slime coat that helps them stay healthy. The moment you touch a fish with dry hands, you risk damaging that layer, making them more vulnerable to disease. Here’s how to keep that slime intact: Wet Your Hands before touching the fish. Avoid Towel Wraps – They can dry out or scrape off the slime, even if you use a damp towel. Cradle, Don’t Squeeze – Gentle support under the belly and tail, and avoid putting any pressure on the fish’s gills. The goal here is to minimize handling time while keeping the fish calm. Less stress means a stronger fish when it swims back.

2. Use the Right Tools for Quick Hook Removal

Sometimes, hooks get stuck in all the wrong places. A good set of tools can mean the difference between a smooth release and a fish that’s worse for wear. Invest in a Quality Set of Pliers – Long-nose pliers or specialized hook removers can reach deep-set hooks without harming the fish. Consider Barbless Hooks – If you’re serious about catch-and-release, barbless hooks or crimping the barbs on your hooks can make removal quicker and less stressful for the fish. Be Gentle with Gills – Avoid pulling a hook if it’s near the gills; instead, carefully snip the line close to the hook. Fish can sometimes work out or live with a small hook, but damaged gills are often fatal.

3. Mind the Air Exposure – Time is Ticking!

Fish can only hold their breath for so long, and every second counts once they’re out of water. Try to follow the “10-Second Rule” to keep air exposure to a minimum. Minimize Out-of-Water Time – Snap your quick photo, but aim to have the fish back in the water within 10 seconds. Revive in the Water – Gently cradle the fish in the water, pointing it into the current if you’re in a river or stream. This lets oxygen flow over its gills, helping it regain strength before swimming off.

4. Avoid High-Temperature Fishing When Possible

Fish are extra sensitive when water temps start climbing, especially species like trout that thrive in colder waters. If the water’s heating up, consider an early-morning or late-evening trip when things have cooled off. Take Note of Water Temperature – Many fish species are prone to stress in high water temps (over 70°F for trout, for instance). Be Extra Gentle in Warm Conditions – Fish already face increased oxygen demands and stress, so handling with care is even more critical during these times.

5. Know When (and When Not) to Release

Sometimes, catch-and-release is the right call; other times, keeping the fish is actually better for the fishery. Assess the Fish’s Condition – If a fish is deeply hooked, bleeding, or overly exhausted, its chances of survival might be low. In these cases, keeping it and following regulations is often the more responsible choice. Understand Local Regulations – Certain waters have catch-and-release requirements, but other places might encourage selective harvest. Knowing the rules ensures you’re doing your part for the ecosystem.

6. The Right Gear for Better Releases

Having the right gear isn’t just about landing fish – it’s about releasing them safely too. Use Knotless Rubber Nets – Knotless nets with rubber mesh reduce scale loss and slime damage. They’re a win-win: easier on the fish and less prone to tangling your hook. Choose the Right Rod and Line – Using gear suited for your target fish ensures you can bring them in faster, reducing the chances of over-tiring. A fish that’s fought too long is more likely to go belly up, no matter how careful you are with the release.

Final Thought: Every Fish Counts

Catch-and-release is more than a technique; it’s a mindset. It’s about respecting the fish, the environment, and our fellow anglers. Taking a few extra steps to release fish safely doesn’t just help that one fish – it contributes to the health of the entire fishery. So next time you’re out on the water, keep these tips in mind. Every fish that swims away strong is a future catch waiting to happen.

Fishing should be fun, but it’s also a way to connect with nature responsibly. By mastering catch-and-release, you’re not just a better angler – you’re a better steward of the waters.

🎣 IN THE FIELD

• "England ace Phil Foden yells 'it's a big one' as he bags monster carp on fishing trip with TV expert": Manchester City and England footballer Phil Foden showcased his passion for fishing by landing a massive carp during a trip with TV expert Neil Spooner. THE SCOTTISH SUN

• "Fishing Crew Rescues Over 3 Dozen Dogs Treading Water in Mississippi Lake": A fishing crew in Mississippi heroically rescued 38 hounds stranded in Grenada Lake, highlighting the unexpected challenges and rewards of a day on the water. PEOPLE

• "Fisheries officers see red at car full of blue crabs": South Australian fisheries officers have issued over 70 fines totaling $25,000 to anglers violating fishing rules, including taking undersized blue swimmer crabs and exceeding bag limits. This is going to make for one hell of a crab boil. GOVERNMENT OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA

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