Catch and release isn’t a new concept. Even in the early part of the 20th Century, far sighted anglers could see the potential for depleted fisheries. Over the last decade it should have become apparent to all but the comatose angler that there isn’t an inexhaustible well of fish in our waters. We’ve fought battles to limit netting and made a commitment to be better stewards by agreeing to reasonable restrictions on size and bag limits. We’re better educated in the press and at the docks about limiting our catch and being less concerned about catching our limit.

Even with the new ethic, an influx of anglers, loss of habitat, climate change and water quality issues will continue to pressure Florida’s fisheries. This makes it even more important to educate anglers about the marine environment, the importance of catch and release and proper release tools and techniques.

Unfortunately, there has been a trend away from this ethic, as some tournaments are holding kill tournaments with the best of (misguided) intentions. Many sell the fish caught and donate the proceeds to charity. While this is a noble idea, it sends the wrong message. A better idea would be to encourage catch and release and raise funds through other means.

I hope the release ethic continues to grow and inspire a new generation of anglers. It’s also important to continue to educate anglers on proper release techniques, so they can release fish that are out of season, unwanted or undersized. Effective tools and procedures exist to assure that when properly handled the majority of fish we release will survive to reproduce and fight again.

A fish’s chances of survival will be greatest if they are played to the boat and released quickly without removing them from the water. One of the easiest ways to assure this is to flatten the barbs on hooks. If constant pressure is applied during a fight, the hook will not back out. Once the fish is at boat side, it can be easily released without ever touching it using a heavy (stainless) wire https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwx6D1LAXoE with a loop handle and a U or circle shaped bend in the end.

Circle hooks are a great option for live bait anglers. Their design causes them to lodge in the corner of a fish’s mouth a majority of the time. Circle hooks are extremely effective, especially for novice anglers. They only differ from traditional hooks in how they are set. The angler only needs to let the line come tight when a fish hits and just start reeling.

A fish that needs to be revived should be held in the water at boat-side with gloved hands and towed slowly through the water until it swims away under their own power. If a fish is removed from the water for a photo or measurement, care must be taken to avoid removing the viscous film that coats their scales. This is the fish’s first line of defense against disease and parasites. It helps them to move effortlessly through the water and oddly enough, makes them waterproof. A tool such as a Boga Grip can firmly hold the fish, minimizing contact. If a net is used it should be constructed of a soft pliable material such as cotton or nylon.

Speedy pelagic species like kingfish, Spanish mackerel and bonito require a different approach if they are released after a long fight. They should be “launched” into the water head first like you would throw a spear. If the fish is deeply hooked, especially near the gill area, the best option is to cut the line as near the hook as possible. Research supported by scientists’ shows that fish can expel a hook in the same manner as a finger rids itself of a splinter.

Use proper tackle, de-barb hooks and be prepared to release fish quickly and efficiently using the proper tools and techniques. Fishing is a great experience and deserves to be passed along to future generations. Catch and release is a good investment in a prosperous fishing future.