Catch-and-release fishing has become popular among anglers. Catch-and-release occurs when an angler catches a fish and returns it to its natural environment — a river, lake or ocean. Conservationists are strong proponents of this technique. The advent of catch-and-release fishing has had a significant impact on fishing. The population of Rainbow Trout, Billfish, and other game fish have benefited dramatically over the past few years as more anglers focus on conserving sport fishing for the next generation.
Why You Care.
Even where it’s legal to keep fish for consumption, some anglers don’t because of their belief in the propriety of the catch-and-release ethic,” says James Rose, professor emeritus of zoology at the University of Wyoming, writing for the New York Times.
Studies suggest that fish caught and then returned to their natural environment have survival rates of more than 90 percent. However, anglers need to limit the amount of time these fish spend out of the water. Outside of its natural environment, fish rapidly become stressed and exhausted.
You Should Catch-and-Release.
If you release a fish back into the water, it will continue to live and grow. Keeping the desired fish in the water — experts say improves fish stock conservation. Invasive fish species, such as carp and lionfish have had a negative impact on local ecosystems and are rapidly becoming a higher percentage of the stock.
Use the Proper Catch-and-Release Technique.
-
Use small single hooks, never treble hooks.
-
Use pliers to remove the hook.
-
Keep handling time to a minimum.
About Rory Brown, Jr.: Rory Brown, Jr. is the Founder and Developer of Fish!t, an iOS navigation app used to track and save your favorite fishing locations. Based in Charleston, SC, Rory will matriculate from Porter-Gaud High School in June of 2019.