releasing fish

[Chrisper4694]

this is not going to be one of those arguments over keeping or releasing legal fish! I wish more people would release big fish but within regulations it's their prerogative.

I just want to put this up for the people who intend on releasing big fish. I've seen or heard of a few failed releases; people wanting to release big fish but failing. And i think the number one reason this is happening is this:

If the fight lasts long (light tackle, large fish, etc.) and you get it to the boat or shore and get the net around it....DO NOT IMMEDIATELY LIFT THE FISH OUT OF THE WATER.

Leave it in the net, unhook it in the water if possible. let it revive right away after the fight rather than pulling it out for a picture or measure and then trying to revive it after it's too late. as it sits in the net get you measuring tape pulled out and the camera ready.

give it a minute or so and then pull it out of the water and snap a few pics and the fish will honestly be out of the water for maybe a total of 20-30 seconds after it has revived already vs. 1-2 minutes immediately after it has already been spent by a long fight.

I know it's not exactly the same but think of it this way...if you just sprinted 100 yards would you want me to put a bag over your head immediately or would you rather me give you a couple of minutes to get your breath back before i put a bag over your head? haha.