For many anglers, catch-and-release fishing is the norm rather than the exception. Some practice it as a means of conserving their favorite species and ensuring opportunities will exist for future generations. Others have no desire to harvest the fish they catch. Regardless of the motivation, successful catch and release requires the long-term survival of the fish following the release.

Simply releasing a fish does not guarantee future survival. If the fish is not handled properly from the time it is hooked to the time of final release, the odds are against successful survival, even if the fish initially swims and otherwise appears healthy. By following some simple best practices, the conservation-minded angler can greatly increase the health of the fish at the time of release.

Bait: Numerous studies have confirmed that fish caught on live bait experience a high mortality rate. This is generally due to deeper, more injurious hooking caused by the bait being more readily swallowed. These deep hooking can also be difficult to remove, which usually results in a greater level of injury.

Equipment: A proper setup will increase the chances of fish survival. A rod-and-reel combination designed for the target species will allow landing fish without excessive play and reduce stress. A landing net and forceps or pliers will assist with release while limiting the need to remove the fish from the water.

Finally, circle hooks will reduce mortality related to hooking, especially when using bait rather than lures.

Landing: One of the greatest dangers to the health of any fish is the increased stress experienced during the time it takes you to land it. This stress can tire the fish to the point that it simply dies of exhaustion. Once a fish is successfully hooked, you should land it as quickly as possible, handle it as little as possible and release it as soon as possible. One possible exception to this rule would be when fishing in extremely deep water. Some species may experience dangerous bloating when forced to the surface too quickly, which is often fatal. In this case, a slow, steady retrieval would be less stressful than a quick trip from the bottom.

Hook removal: Hooks should be removed quickly and with as little injury as possible. Ideally, the hook will be set within the mouth itself and removed with the assistance of forceps. However, if the hook is set near the gills or deep within the throat, removal may cause more damage than simply snipping the line and allowing it to dislodge itself over time.

Conditions: A final factor that greatly influences survival rates is the water conditions, specifically when it comes to temperatures. For many freshwater species, including trout or bass, stress levels are magnified when water temperatures rise above 77 degrees. When fishing during warmer weather, anglers wishing to practice catch and release should also practice extreme care to reduce the other stressors mentioned above. If fish are housed in a live well for any period, such as during a tournament, it is vital that the temperature difference between the live well and waterway not exceed 10 degrees.

There is nothing wrong with harvesting a few fish for table fare; in fact, it is one way of controlling harvests. Proper catch and release also ensure that fish populations thrive. But catch and release is only beneficial if the fish survive. Otherwise, you have only deprived yourself and others of the chance to enjoy the catch.

Good luck and good fishing.