Catch and Release Fishing

Practicing catch and release fishing is always the best way to preserve the waters you are fishing in. Fishing for dinner can be great fun, but catch and release fishing is just as enjoyable. Following these simple steps will ensure that the fish you caught will live to put up another great fight one day.

You will want to make sure that you retreive the fish as quick as possible. The less fatigued the fish is after you've caught it, the better its chances are.

Using barbless hooks will limit the injury to the fish when trying to remove lures and bait. You can fix you lures with pliers by bending the bard down to allow easy removal of your hooks.

Using a net that is made of a soft material will also protect the fish. There are some new nets that are made with rubber that will not only protect the fish, but also prevent your lines and lures from getting tangled.

What many people don't realize is that fish have a slimy protective layer on their skin. This layer helps protect them from harmful elements in the water and infection. To preserve this protective layer, wet you hands before handling the fish.

If possible, especially with larger fish, keep the fish in the water. If you want a picture of that catch of the day, then have the camera ready and have your fishing buddy snap the picture of it while in the water or lift it just a few inches out of the water. Leaving the fish out of water for too long will most certainly end with the fish swimming belly up.

When removing the hook, use pliers. If the hook was swallowed, remove the leader on the line as close to the fish's mouth as possible. Leave it inside the fish as removing it can cause great harm to the fish. Also, never put your fingers in the fish's gills.

When it comes time to release the fish, hold the fish in the water facing the current. This will allow water to pass over the gills to give the fish oxygen. Too many people just let the fish go before making sure it is fine. Hold the fish in your hands until it starts struggling to get free. Once it starts struggling, then you know it is lively and ready to be released.

Following this method of catch and release will ensure the safety of the fish you are catching. Fishing is always a lot of fun and making sure not to harm the fish you catch will only make it better. Catch and release fishing is always the best way to go.