1. 1. This allows the hook to pass back through the fish’s stomach should it be swallowed, and hook in the corner of the lip once line pressure is applied by the angler. When brought to the surface rapidly by an angler, the gasses in their swim bladder expand rapidly like an over-inflated balloon. Keep admiration time and photos to a minimum. To keep yourself out of hot water, be sure to check your state’s regulations before you snap that photo. The National Park Service strives to maintain park resources in a natural, unaltered condition. Keeps hands from getting wet (great for cold days). 4. Once the fish takes the hook, be sure to keep solid pressure on your line and reel fast. De-barb your hooks: use a pair of pliers to squish the hook’s barb down. Careful Catch and Release Brochure (for large saltwater pelagic fish), Last updated by Office of Sustainable Fisheries However, further research has revealed that venting and drop weights have no significant effect in reducing mortality.Wilde, G-R. (2009). Get expert articles delivered straight to your inbox! 6. The swim bladder can actually expand to the point where it forces itself, or other internal organs like the stomach, out through the fish’s mouth and/or rear orifice. Discarded fishing line, lead weights, soft lures, and bait containers are becoming a serious environmental problem. Lactate levels begin to rise in its blood, similar to what happens to humans during intense physical exercise. Treble hooks: These hooks can cause a lot of damage to your catch. Catch and release is a great conservation strategy, but simply letting a fish go does not guarantee it will live. The reasons for releasing fish vary: from anglers who like to fish but hate the taste, to anglers who practice strict conservation methods in the hope of sustaining a healthy fishery for future generations. ; Use rod, reel, and line of sufficient strength to quickly land the fish - Long struggles may significantly increase mortality rate. Easy-grip handle. Support the weight of any fish removed from the water along the length of its body. These minimize handling and make it easier to release the fish without removing it from the water. Made in USA. Florida DFW passed this law a few years back pertaining to tarpon, and is actually searching for anglers who have violated the law by investigating them through social media websites. Avoid touching the fish’s eyes and gills. Circle hooks are best. 3. If you want more information about how you can help protect our fisheries, a good place to start is to join a local watershed group or non-profit that specializes in environmental advocacy. Use a release tool such as a dehooker. Fish caught in deep water can suffer from barotrauma—the build up of gases within their bodies that makes it difficult or impossible for them to swim back down.