Top tips for catching and releasing fish

The practice of catch-and-release fishing is a win/win for me. The satisfaction of the catch is equally matched watching your fish swim off in great condition.

Make no mistake, I love eating fish and will take home enough for a
family feed. But I try to eat sustainable species such as flathead, calamari and
Aussie salmon, which grow quickly.

It’s important to educate yourself as to
which fish are best for the table and which ones should be destined for release.

FISHING FOR TOMORROW
The International Game Fish Association (IGFA) have been champions of sustainable sports fishing, providing the opportunity for catch-and-release records ripe for the taking.

Remember, successful catch and release goes beyond merely returning fish to the water, but also returning them in the best state possible. Arming yourself with some basic facts and preparation will help in your successful catch-and-release endeavours.

RELEASING TIPS
If releasing a fish where there is limited or no water flow, you will need to create the necessary water flow through the fish's gills. Gently pushing and pulling the fish back and forth in the water whilst supporting the fish in an upright horizontal position will do the trick.

When the gills become active and the fish can support itself in the water, it is ready for release. In high flow situations, releasing a fish prematurely can have disastrous effects. Try and find quieter waters for revival in this situation.

Swim fish regularly and place them back in the water to re-oxygenate if handling for longer periods for any reason. If you are using an environmentally friendly net you can swim the fish in the net prior to release and then simply drop the net further in the water to watch your fish swim away.

Circle hooks have revolutionised survival rates of fish and should be used. Their design results in hook-ups in the corner of the mouth and not stomach where more traditional J hooks locate and cause irreversible damage.

Flattening the barbs on your hooks or barbless hooks, especially when catching smaller stream or estuary fish, also allows for an easy release. When you get your fish to the side of the boat or bank, a simple flicking action will see your fish returned effortlessly to the water.

Lip grips are an important catch-and-release tool for returning fish to the water in pristine condition. They negate the need to put your hand into the gill cavities of a fish to lift them. They also reduce direct handling of fish where their protective slime covering can be removed on contact causing future problems.

When you catch larger/older fish consider that they are usually the most fertile producers, their flesh would contain more impurities, and they are less healthy and often less succulent to eat.

Catch and release will ensure the DNA of the big fish stays in the gene pool. And the satisfaction of watching a big fish swim away is just so special.