New catch and release rules considered

[MeghanOOD]

https://oodmag.com/new-catch-and-rel...es-considered/

A proposed change to catch-and-release regulations allowing anglers more leeway to photograph and measure their catch was posted on the ERO.

[trimmer21]

It's a section of the FWCA that's always been in dire need of amendment.

[finsfurfeathers]

Hmmm not a big fan of pictures of OOS fish. It would also take a forum rule change to allow them here too.

[fishfood]

Always room for a photo as long as it's within reason and the fish is not harmed.


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[redd foxx]

I agree. I don't see a big issue with taking photos of OOS fish. Lots of people fish catch and release only and there are some fish that have zero possession limits as well as some seasons are catch and release only so what is the difference as long as the fish goes back healthy.

[Fenelon]

Allowing the extra handling will be OK for some species, but disaster for others, especially large female muskellunge. This is only going to make the post release mort rate higher. Most people don't realize how stress-sensitive those larger female fish are. 30 seconds of extra handling stress can easily make the difference between a successful release and a dead fish. It may swim away after you've spend two minutes reviving it, but chances are high that it's a dead fish the following day. Most trophy muskie are not being handled properly now - eg. prolonged playing of fish, lack of in-water sling use, prolonged out of water handling, passing the fish around for pics, and the dreaded vertical hang that has almost definately killed the fish.

[Fisherman]

All I can say is "just one more picture". Why, now you're giving the clowns the go ahead to hold the fish in 20 different positions with smiles, tongues sticking out, etc. Maybe we should stick their heads underwater for a bit and see what it's like.

[fishfood]

Photo shoots would not be a reasonable responsible time. But those already happen.

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