Catching fish is one of the greatest joys of being an angler. However, if you plan to release your catch, it’s important to handle the fish properly to ensure it survives and thrives. The right techniques can minimize harm, especially when practicing catch-and-release fishing. By following these simple steps, you can help protect fish populations and support sustainable fishing practices.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best methods for handling and releasing fish to maximize their chances of survival after you catch them.

1. Use the Right Gear

Before even hooking a fish, it’s important to make sure you’re using the right gear. The tools you choose can affect how easily and safely you can release the fish.

What Gear to Use

• Barbless Hooks: Whenever possible, use barbless hooks. These hooks are easier to remove and cause less injury to the fish.

• Proper Rod and Reel: Use a rod and reel that can handle the species you’re targeting. A rod that’s too light can lead to a tiring fight for the fish, while one that’s too heavy may cause unnecessary damage.

• Landing Net: Use a soft, rubberized landing net to reduce the risk of harming the fish. Nets with mesh are gentler than traditional knotty nets and cause less skin damage.

Pro Tip: Consider using circle hooks for catch-and-release fishing. These hooks tend to hook fish in the lip, making it easier to release them without injury.

2. Keep the Fish in the Water as Much as Possible

The less time a fish spends out of water, the better its chances of survival. Fish rely on water to breathe, so when they’re out of water, they can become stressed and suffocate.

How to Handle the Fish

• Minimize Air Exposure: Try to keep the fish in the water while unhooking it. If you need to lift the fish out, do so for the shortest time possible.

• Wet Your Hands: If you must handle the fish, always wet your hands first. Dry hands can remove the fish’s protective slime layer, leaving them vulnerable to infections.

Pro Tip: Use a fish-friendly net and lift the fish gently to avoid damage. Keep the fish close to the water surface and handle it quickly.

3. Handle the Fish Gently

Fish are delicate creatures, and rough handling can cause injury, stress, or even death. Always be gentle when holding a fish, especially if you plan to release it.

Best Ways to Handle Fish

• Support the Fish’s Body: When you do lift a fish out of the water, support its body, especially larger fish. Hold it gently by the body, not by the gills or eyes, as these areas are very sensitive.

• Avoid Grabbing the Gills: Never grab a fish by its gills. This can cause internal damage and make it more difficult for the fish to breathe once it’s released.

• Use Two Hands for Larger Fish: For bigger fish like bass or trout, use two hands—one under the body and the other supporting the tail area.

Pro Tip: Do not squeeze the fish tightly. A firm but gentle grip will prevent injury while allowing you to unhook the fish quickly.

4. Unhook the Fish Quickly and Safely

The quicker you can remove the hook, the better for the fish. Prolonged hook removal can cause stress or injury, so it’s important to work efficiently but carefully.

How to Unhook the Fish

• Use a De-hooking Tool: If the hook is deeply embedded, use a de-hooking tool to remove it without causing injury. Many anglers use pliers or specialized fish hook removers for this task.

• Release the Fish Near the Water: Once the hook is removed, hold the fish gently by the body and place it back in the water. Avoid tossing the fish back in, as the sudden impact can cause internal injuries.

Pro Tip: If the fish swallows the hook deeply, consider cutting the line as close to the hook as possible rather than attempting to remove it. This gives the fish a better chance of survival.

5. Revive the Fish Before Releasing It

Fish that are caught can become stressed and exhausted, so it’s important to help them recover before releasing them back into the water. A revived fish will have a better chance of surviving.

How to Revive the Fish

• Move the Fish in the Water: Gently hold the fish in the water and move it forward and backward. This motion will help water flow through its gills, allowing it to breathe and recover.

• Wait for It to Swim Away: Once the fish starts to kick its tail and swim away on its own, it’s ready to go. If the fish isn’t swimming away immediately, continue to hold it gently in the water until it regains strength.

Pro Tip: Be patient. The process of reviving a fish can take time, especially for larger species. Never release the fish until it is strong enough to swim away on its own.

6. Know When Not to Release the Fish

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a fish may not survive after being caught and handled. If the fish is severely injured or stressed, it may be best to keep it rather than releasing it back into the water.

When to Keep the Fish

• Severe Injury: If the fish has significant injuries, such as deep wounds or broken fins, it may not survive. In this case, consider keeping the fish for consumption (if legal) or donating it to a local program.

• Prolonged Stress: If the fish is exhausted from a prolonged fight or has trouble swimming after release, it might be best to keep it, as it may not survive in the wild.

Pro Tip: Always follow local fishing regulations regarding catch limits and species protection. Release fish that are protected or endangered.

Conclusion

Properly handling and releasing fish is a crucial part of responsible fishing. By following these simple steps—using the right gear, minimizing air exposure, handling the fish gently, unhooking quickly, and reviving the fish—you’ll give your catch the best chance of survival. Practicing ethical fishing techniques helps protect fish populations and ensures that future generations of anglers can enjoy the sport. By treating fish with care and respect, you contribute to preserving the health of aquatic ecosystems. Happy fishing, and always remember to release with care!