Release Tagged Fish
"Free the Fighter" Tips on releasing fish:
- Plan a release strategy before angling or at least before bringing in the
fish.
- Enjoy the fight, but remember the quicker a fish is brought to the boat the
better the chances are for it to be released alive.
- Do not use gaffs, and if possible avoid using landing nets or removing large
fish from the water. A Boga Grip® or similar device provides an effective means
for handling fish boatside.
- Minimize handling, especially avoiding the gills and eyes. On small fish a
soft, wet towel placed over the eyes will provide moisture and keep the fish
calm until the tag can be inserted.
- Use pliers to remove the hook from the fish while it is still in the water.
If the hook is deeply embedded cut the leader as close to the fish's mouth as
possible.
- Never jerk on the leader or "toss" a fish back into the water when
releasing.
- If the fish appears to be exhausted, gently aerate the gills by moving the fish back and forth through the water until it is able to swim off on its own.
The tagging kits cost the tagging program about $15 each but are free to anglers. Because the program operates on such a limited budget, anglers are asked to use the tags wisely and conservatively. Please follow the program guidelines.