So what is it exactly that you do with the fish you catch? For some, they practice fish conservation and abide the philosophy of keeping enough for their meal and releasing the rest.
Let's dive right in.
Why Fish Conservation Matters
Fish are a renewable resource. Thus, proper management and fish conservation techniques are needed to ensure their survival and the abundance of the resource for future generations.
In fact, over fished stocks would require years of regulatory action and monitoring to restore the fishery into one that is again self-sufficient and self-sustaining.
Additionally, for every year that passes, there seems to be more restrictions in regards to the recreational catch limits. Even size limits are imposed as part of fish conservation.
All of these due to the occurrence of over fishing which is a consequence of improved fishing technology.
The Solution to Fish Conservation
Practicing the habit of catch and release is actually one of the ways in which recreational anglers like you could help ensure the health and prosperity of the future fisheries.
In this way, you can also guarantee everybody’s opportunity to have a fun day of deep sea fishing that is concluded with a scrumptious and satisfying meal while practicing fish conservation.
Here are some of the ways in which you can help ensure the survival of the fish that you release and get some satisfaction by returning your catch to its environment.
Get Your Tackle Right
First off, you should make sure that your tackle matches the fish you’re targeting. Although it may not seem obvious, doing this can ensure its safety once you release it back into the water. If your tackle is too light, it would be exhausted by the moment you land it.
Thus due to its exhaustion, it could be a very easy target for predators when released back into the water; since it couldn’t swim that fast for awhile. Preventing this exhaustion goes a long way in fish conservation.
Customize Your Hook
Customizing your hook is yet another way to conserve your catch. By simply using a pair of pliers, you can mash down your hook’s barb. Doing this would enable you to more easily release the catch and increase the safety on its side.
Another great addition to the terminal tackle you’ll be using would be circle hooks. These do well in assisting with fish conservation.
When the catch swallows the hook, all you have to do is cut the line as closely as you can to your hook, then release your catch as quickly as you can.
Don’t Suffocate the Fish
As much as possible, while releasing your catch leave it in the water. If there is no choice but to handle it out of the water, then be sure that you wet your hands.
You should do this to reduce the removal of its protective slime layer that covers it. The removal of this layer can make your catch susceptible to disease once it goes back into the water.
Hold the Fish Right for Fish Conservation
How you handle the fish is important too for fish conservation. You should make sure that you don't grab it by its gills or eyes, since these are very sensitive areas that fish need for their survival.
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