Landing a big fish is a thrill, and so is getting a great photo of it. But when you plan to release the fish, its health comes first. Here's how to get the shot and still give the fish its best chance to swim away strong.
Be Ready Before You Cast
Have your phone or camera ready and easy to reach before you hook a fish. Keep your pliers or a hook remover handy too, so you can unhook the fish fast. The less time spent fumbling, the better for the fish.
Minimize Time Out of Water
This is the most important rule. Fish can't breathe out of water, and even short exposure adds stress. Try to keep it under 30 seconds, and less is better. Have a buddy ready to take the picture, and keep the fish in the water until the camera is ready.
Handle With Care
Wet your hands before touching the fish to protect its slime coat, which guards against infection. Don't squeeze the fish, and keep your fingers away from the gills. A rubber mesh net is easier on fish than knotted nylon.
Hold It Right
For larger fish, hold them horizontally and support the body with both hands, one near the tail and one under the belly. Hanging a heavy fish vertically, or holding a big bass by the jaw at an extreme angle, can injure it.
Release Gently
Lower the fish back into the water and support it until it swims off on its own. If it seems tired, hold it upright facing into the current, or move it slowly forward so water flows over the gills, until it kicks away.
Know the Conditions
Some species, like trout, are more sensitive to handling than others. Warm water holds less oxygen, so in summer, keep fights short and photos quick. In moving water, point the fish into the current while it recovers. Fish caught from deep water may need special handling, so check your state's guidelines.
Respect the Catch
The goal of catch and release is a fish that lives to fight another day. Be prepared, keep it wet, handle it gently and release it carefully. Landing fish quickly helps too: strong braided line and a properly set drag shorten the fight so the fish has more energy left. Barbless or circle hooks can make unhooking faster.
What do you do to protect the fish you release? Share your tips in the comments.
