Codmuster

What is "catch & release"?

The angler must understand that simply putting the fish back in the water is not what catch and release is about. If not done properly the fish will suffer injuries and most likely die following release. You want to give the fish the best possible chance at survival. This short guide will hopefully point you in the right direction when releasing fish.

Key points

1. Use the appropriate gear
2. Support the fish correctly
3. Limit the time the fish is out of the water
4. Do not suspend the fish by the jaw under any circumstances

The gear you need

Boga Grips

These allow you to control the fish while still in the water, support the fish correctly when out of the water and release the fish correctly

Environet

This protects the slime coating of the fish which is very important for their survival.

Barbless Hooks

These allow easier removal of hooks and thus less stress on the fish.

Landing, supporting, weighing and releasing the fish

1. Do not suspend the fish by the jaw under any circumstance. Support the underbelly of the fish at all times.
2. When the fish is taken out of the water rest it on a soft, wet surface such as a wet towel.
3. Weigh the fish using a sling (great example on Murray Cod Magic DVD). If a sling is unavailable a wet bag or landing net can also be used.
4. Before releasing the fish use your Boga grips to swim the fish until it is swimming strongly and begins to kick.