Tips on Releasing Fish

It is important to release a fish so that it has the best chance to survive.

1. Be Gentle: Rough handling destroys the slimy protective layer on a fish. Don't squeeze or touch the fish's gills. Remove the hook as quickly as possible.

2. Be Quick: The faster you get the fish back into the water, the better the chance is that it will survive.

3. Be Kind: Don't keep the fish out of the water too long or it will suffocate. Don't tear the hook out. If a hook is deeply caught in the fish, and you must release it, cut the line and leave the hook in the fish.

4. Be Sensible: Don't release bleeding fish if they are within your limit as their chance of survival is very slim. Fish may lose consciousness and float on their side. Hold them upright and move them foreward in the water to give them artifical repiration, then release the fish when it begins to struggle.

Information taken from Ontario Recreational
 Fishing Regulations, 1998, MNR. And 
Sport Fishing and Recreation in the Blind River 
District, 1987, MNR.