releasing fish

[Paul N Skill]

Also pinch down the barbs on your hooks.

[bunker dunker]

that's why a fillet mine first.never have to worry about things like that.........
just kidding!!!!! makes good sense to take care of the fish so it can be released in good shape.

[Eskimo]

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Very interesting. I'll give this a chance if I should ever catch a big fish.

I'm usually so excited to get the fish out of the water that I never considered giving the fish a chance to recover from the fight before lifting her out of the water.

As I mentioned in another post, I'm getting into pinching down my barbs. I've found it does a lot less damage to the fish when you slide the smooth hook out without having to rip a barb back through the flesh. This is especially true when a fish is hooked deep in its mouth near it's gills and pharynx.


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[NickM221]

I always get some funny looks walking along the Passaic with my big landing net, but this is exactly why I do it. It makes the fish easier to land in some places where the banks get steep, and I like leaving the fish in the water without having to worry about him while I get my phone and release tools ready for pictures

I'm not too sure where it originally came from, but I think you guys might enjoy this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UE6GrJr6oVg

[Esox Luciano]

Great post and just in time for any upcoming esox contests!!!!

Just yesterday I saw the exact opposite of what Cris is saying.
HAVE PROPER TOOLS WHEN FISHING FOR BIG FISH!!

DON'T BE A PUSS IF YOU HAVE TO GET YOUR HANDS OR WHOLE BODY DIRTY!!

DON'T USE CHEAP FLUOROCARBON...USE STRONG STEEL LEADERS!!

DON'T CAST ANYWHERE YOU CAN'T LAND A BIG FISH...YOU LOSE A LURE & A FISH, THE FISH LOSES IT'S LIFE!!

Great points on the reviving of fish as well Cris, especially as the temps start escalating. Much more of a successful release if we take our time and apply all these things. I'm sure buzz can add some helpful tips as well.

[AndyS]

I went to a small landing net, works like a charm ! Not only is it better and easier for landing a fish, but it makes it a whole lot easier to take pics too.
Lost lots of nets going through the woods. This time I drilled holes in the wood and did a double lanyard.