TIPS - Catch and Release Techniques

Catching fish is difficult enough. By properly executing a release, catching fish in the future should not be anymore difficult than it is today.

By following some simple guidelines, your catch will live to be hooked again.

	Barbless Hooks - by crimping your barbs, releasing fish is a breeze. Another theory is the hook will penetrate without any hesitation; therefore hooking up more.
	Don't Play The Fish Out - get the fish into the boat or bank as soon as possible, this will save some of the fish's energy and it will not be too exhausted to fight the current or hungry loons waiting for your fish.
	Wet Your Hands - this will help protect the mucus film that protects the fish from infection.
	Don't Squeeze OR Touch The Gills - hold the fish upside down (for a calming effect) with enough pressure to get the hook out or a quick picture. The gills transfer oxygen from the water to the fish, so it's an important part, treat them with respect.
	Keep The Fish In The Water - keep the fish in the water as much as possible so it gets oxygen and recovers quickly. Never keep the fish out of the water for a long photo shoot, one or two pictures is enough.
	Cutting The Leader - if the leader is in too deep, do not risk damaging the gills or anything else by performing an operation, the hooks will rust or work themselves out faster than you think.
	Reviving An Exhausted Fish - after a long battle the fish will need a little help gaining its energy back. Hold the fish in the water and gently move the fish back and forth in the water to get water running through the gills, the fish will scoot when ready.