FISHERIES CONSERVATION BEGINS WITH YOU: Tips on Releasing a Hooked Fish

by James M. Falk, Marine Recreation and Tourism Specialist, (302) 645-4346

Most recreational fishermen are aware that stocks of fish are not exhaustible. Like any living resource, they must be conserved. Many states have passed regulations to help in this conservation effort. Some require minimum size limits for "keeper" fish, others prohibit the capture of spawning fish, and still others have daily catch limits for certain species. Although the specific reasons for these regulations may vary, in general, the rationale is to make it possible for the fish to reach sexual maturity and spawn so that existing stocks can increase.

Delaware, too, has passed legislation that sets minimum size and possession limits on a number of important sportfish, e.g., weakfish, summer flounder, and tautog. (For striped bass, there's a maximum size limit as well.) For size and possession limit information on sportfish caught in Delaware waters, request a copy of the current Delaware Fishing Guide from the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Division of Fish and Wildlife, P.O. Box 1401, Dover, DE 19903.

When size or possession limits are in effect, or if you are using voluntary keeper rules, it is important to know the proper techniques for releasing a hooked fish. Not all fish can be released successfully. A badly damaged fish or one that is bleeding heavily is not likely to survive. However, a fish that is handled quickly and gently during catch and release will have a good chance of survival. Follow these tips when releasing a hooked fish:

Play and release a fish as quickly as possible. A fish that is played to the point of exhaustion may not survive. Small fish are overcome by tackle quickly, and unless the hook has induced heavy injury, they can be unhooked carefully and released gently into the water. Large fish often require a bit more effort to revive; usually they are not overcome by tackle, and the struggle may lead to total exhaustion and shock.

Keep the fish in water as much as possible during handling. Try not to let the fish flop around on a hard surface such as a boat bottom or pier deck.

Handle the fish gently; avoid squeezing. Use wet gloves or at least be sure that your hands are wet while handling the fish to avoid rubbing off the fish's protective layer of mucus. Always avoid touching the gills.

Try to handle the fish by the lower jaw if possible. If you are releasing a fish with sharp teeth (such as a weakfish or bluefish) use special fish-handling pliers designed for removing hooks.

Do not tear the hook out of the fish's mouth. This is especially important with the weakfish because its mouth tissue is extremely soft and susceptible to tearing. If the fish is lightly hooked, it can often be released by grabbing the hook at the bend with pliers (a recommended tool in every tackle box) and gently shaking the hook loose. If the hook cannot be removed with pliers, cut the leader and leave the hook in. Most hooks will dissolve in a short period of time.

Release the fish by gently slipping it back into the water. Don't throw it back with a big splash.

Some fish might need reviving by "walking" them for a minute or two. To "walk a fish," place the fish in the water. With one hand, gently support its head behind the gills. Hold the base of the tail with the other hand. Move the fish back and forth in the water. As the fish begins to recuperate, its fins should begin to stand out, and its gills should begin to work strongly. When the fish begins to pull against your hand with strength, release it. Don't be alarmed if the fish swims off slowly; remember, its muscles are tired from the fight. If the fish takes off quickly, so much the better. By following these tips, you will make it possible for your fish to be caught again by another skilled angler. You also will have done your part to help conserve our valuable fisheries resources.

For Further Reading

Malchoff, M., M. Voiland, and D. MacNeill. "Guidelines to Increase Survival of Released Sport Fish." Available for $1.00 from Media Services Resource Center-Fish, Cornell University, 7 Business and Technology Park, Ithaca, NY 14850.

Richardson, T. "Salt Water Sportsman's Guide to Releasing Fish." Salt Water Sportsman 54(2): 42­47+.