The ARS thread(s) got me thinking about releasing bottom fish, so I wanted to see if anyone uses this method. I have not needed to do it yet (my bottom spots really only produce the usual beeliners, triggers, BSB, and porgies), but I plan on using a barbless hook and large weight to return any illegal fish that I catch.
Is there any reason that I should NOT do this?
Are there any other measures that you guys would suggest I take in addition to or instead of this? I assume that venting is not necessary when releasing a fish this way – is that a poor assumption?
Thanks!
Bryson
2000 Sportcraft Sport Cat 255 - “Morning Bite”
Wilderness Systems Tarpon 160
I’m glad you asked because I was wondering the same thing. Going spade fishing later this month and don’t want to kill anything I’m not eating.
I believe C-Larry said he just assumes some risk and keeps them in a livewell until it’s time to go and they acclimate in this time and can be released. If you see trouble coming you have to discretely dump them.
I was thinking of bringing something like this and maybe cover it with a plastic bag so it doesn’t attract sharks as quickly. http://www.profish3.com/images/acc/fishkeeper-wire-cage.jpg
Then they are not on the boat and more discretely released.
It’s a heavy egg sinker with a large shark hook driven in it. I then put a piece of clothes line wire (vinyl coated wire) in it to attach the fishing line and hand reel.
The trick is to get the weight moving down to drag the fish down. If you put the fish in the water and then release the weight, he’ll get off the barbless hook. I’ll post a picture in the morning.
“I am constantly amazed at the stupidity of the general public.”
~my dad
Equipment:
190cc Sea Pro w/130 Johnson
1- 20 year old (boy of leisure)
1 - 17 year old (fishing maniac)
1 - wife (The Warden)
This is a recent study done in the GOM. It basically says that the most important factor in survival is how QUICKLY you release them. I basically says that if you vent them immediately and return them, it increases their chances (SLIGHTLY), but venting on a delayed release actually decreases survival (SLIGHTLY). Bottom line, venting done PROPERLY and QUICKLY, may have a SLIGHT benefit. However, if done incorrectly and slowly, you are doing more harm than good. Thus, I would rather NOT vent as I don’t think you can execute it perfectly 100% of the time making your gains\losses a wash at best.
The most important factor (from personal experience) is do not bring them in the boat. Leave them in the water. If stomach is protruding, then you are going to have to use a release mechanism. If it’s not prodtruding (which seems to be mostly the case), then just release them and point them straight down. If they float, use a release devices as quickly as possible.
