Releasing fish safely on your fly in fishing trip.
Fishing
- use barbless hooks, avoid using live or organic bait
- reduce the time a fish is played
Handling
- reduce handling that destroys the slimy protective coating on fish,
- do not squeeze or touch the gills,
- keep the fish in water, over the side of the boat or in a tub,
- grasp the fish just behind the gill covers,
- use long-nose pliers to remove the hook quickly without tearing or injuring the fish,
- if you must release a fish that is hooked deeply, cut the line and leave the hook in.
Releasing
- hold the fish upright in a swimming position in the water moving the fish slowly forward so water runs through the gills,
- release the fish when it begins to swim in an upright position.
Ernie, one of our guides.
Look to the tree tops for eagles.
