Tongass National Forest

Tongass Home » Recreation » Fishing

Catch and Release

Release to Increase

Be Prepared

• Use strong line to land your catch quickly.
• Use hooks appropriate to the size of the fish to avoid damaging the fish.
• Fish caught with flies or lures survive at a higher rate than fish caught with bait.
• Use nets made with soft or knotless mesh

Landing your Fish

• Land your fish carefully and quickly.
• Avoid removing the fish from the water.
• Do not let the fish flop in shallow water, over rocks, or on dry land or in the bottom of your boat.

Removing the Hook

• Use long-nosed pliers to back the hook out after pinching down the barbs on the hook.
• Remove the hook quickly and gently while keeping the fish in the water.
• If the fish is bleeding from the gills, it is likely to die and you should keep it as part of your bag limit.
• When a fish is hooked deeply, cut the line near the hook.
• Use hooks that will rust out quickly; avoid stainless steel hooks.

Releasing your Catch

• Cradle the fish gently in the water with one hand under its belly, the other near its tail.
• Use wet hands or wet cloth gloves to handle the fish.
• Keep your fingers away from the gills.
• Never squeeze the fish.
• Lift your fish barely out of the water while your partner takes your picture. Fish cannot remain healthy out of water for longer than you can hold your breath.
• Support the fish facing the current until the fish recovers, then let it go.
• Large fish may take some time to recover.

USDA Forest Service - Tongass National Forest Accessibility Statement
Last Modified: February 28, 2006