Catch and Release to Save the Fish
Posted by Sean McCullough on
Fishing Monsters Loves the Practice of Catch and Release, and it's a phrase that many proud fisherpeople love to use after showing their friends and family and posting that great trout pic. But next time you do that fishing trip and slay said trout, remember a few common rules and ask yourself why you are catching and releasing in the first place!? So you and your new friend may meet again? To keep the fish population in a healthy order? Or...taken directly from the National Park Service Web Site:
"Native fish contribute to nutrient recycling and help maintain natural ecosystem processes when they live out their entire lifecycle, from spawning to death, in the aquatic system. Catch and release fishing improves native fish populations by allowing more fish to remain and reproduce in the ecosystem. This practice provides an opportunity for increasing numbers of anglers to enjoy fishing and to successfully catch fish. Releasing all native fish caught while in a national park will ensure that enjoyment of this recreation opportunity will last for generations to come."
The "slime" (Ewwww) on the trout is what actually protects it from disease, toxins, and harmful bacteria. Therefore, learn to steer fish quickly to a clean landing zone and take precautions to get it back in the water A.S.A.P. Use a Rubberized Mesh net and try not to let it writhe around in the net. Keep it in the water and NEVER USE GLOVES when removing the fish. The more handling, the more depletion of the healthy slime layer. Keep your hands wet, lift the fish, take the pic, and get it back in the water. Releasing a fish within 10 seconds out of water gives it an 88% chance of survival. A 62% chance if out of water for 30 seconds, and only a 28% chance at 1 minute. Better yet, I love the IG pics when the fish is held by the tail, never leaving the water.
Happy Catch and Release my Friends!