Give Fish a Fighting Chance

Every angler wants healthy fisheries and to catch Florida memories for years to come. If you catch a fish that you do not intend to keep or that cannot be harvested, follow these best fishing practices to give a released fish a better chance for survival.

Proper Fish Handling Techniques

• Handle fish as little as possible and get them back in the water quickly.
• Hold the fish horizontally supporting the belly with wet hands.
• Never use a towel to handle fish, as this will remove a fish’s protective slime layer.
• Keep fingers out of the eyes and gills.
• Use a dehooking tool to remove hooks.
• Use a knotless, rubber-coated net and only gaff fish you intend to keep.
• Keep large fish or prohibited species in the water.

Tips for Taking Photos of Fish

• Capturing a catch on camera is a great way to share your experience with others and to create lasting memories.
• Be sure to designate someone as the photographer before the fish is reeled in.
• Have the photographer be ready before the fish is removed from the water.
  • If you are fishing by yourself and want to take a picture, make sure to have a plan for photographing your catch.
  •  Consider using a selfie stick, tripod, or camera mount and have it set up before you start fishing.
•  Always use wet hands to handle the fish and keep the fish dripping wet
• If laying the fish down on a surface to take a picture, make sure the surface is cool and wet, and free from debris (sand, dirt, grass, rocks, etc.)
• Avoid using portrait mode when photographing the angler(s) with the fish, as this can blur the fish
• Photos for Catch a Florida Memory submissions should show a clear side view of the entire fish, including notable characteristics like fins and markings.

More Ethical Angling Tips

• Know the fish common to your area and carry an identification guide like Fishing Lines.
• Learn regulations for fish you target. Regulations are set by fisheries managers based on scientific data and public input to help maintain fish populations for the future.
• Use mobile apps like Fish Rules, Fish|Hunt FL, and FWC Reporter to keep track of fishing regulations, fishing licenses, wildlife sightings and fish you catch.
• Match your gear to the fish you are targeting and weather conditions. Using too light of tackle can exhaust fish that you are planning on releasing, making them susceptible to predators
• Use non-stainless-steel, non-offset, barbless circle hooks when using natural bait.
• Recycle fishing line in a monofilament recycling bin. Or cut fishing line into small sections to avoid entangling wildlife, then dispose of it with other trash in a proper receptacle ashore.
• Hooked a Bird? Don't Cut the Line! Remove. Release.
• Teach others about these proper fish handling techniques and learn more at MyFWC.com/FishHandling.