Why Release Fish

A fish is too valuable a resource to be caught only once.
A personal commitment to conservation adds fun to fishing.
Size, season, and bag regulations make release mandatory.
Stressed fish populations need your help to recover.
The future of sport fishing is in your hands.  Pass it on! 

Handling your own catch

Leave the fish in the water (if possible) and don't handle it. 
Use a tool to remove the hook or cut the leader.
Keep the fish from thrashing.
Net your catch only if you cannot control it any other way.
When you must handle a fish, use a wet glove or rag to hold it.
Turn a fish on its back or cover its eyes with a wet towel to calm it.
Don't put your fingers in the eyes or gills of your catch.
Avoid removing mucous or scales.
Get the fish back in the water as quickly as possible.
Protect against personal injury by handling each species 
carefully and correctly.

Removing the hook

Cut the leader close to the mouth if a fish has been hooked deeply or
if the hook can't be removed quickly.
Back the hook out the opposite way it went in.
Use needle-nose pliers, hemostats, or a hook out to work the hook 
and protect your hands.
Do not jerk or pop a leader to break it. This damages vital organs 
and kills the fish.

Releasing the Fish

Place the fish in the water gently, supporting its mid-section and tail until it swims away.
Resuscitate an exhausted fish by moving it back and forth or tow it slowly alongside the boat to force water through its gills.
Watch your fish to make sure it swims away. If it doesn't, recover the fish and try again.
REMEMBER, a released fish has an excellent chance of survival when handled carefully and correctly.