Section: tips-tactics
Bill RiversCatch & Release SensibilitiesAngler Motives |
 | Angler motives for releasing fish generally fall into three broad categories, the most compelling being release required by the MNR regulations, including fish caught out of season, by illegal means (e.g. foul-hooking), under / over / within defined size / slot specifications, and those caught beyond catch / keep limits. Angler preferences tend to dictate the release of some fish - undesirable and / or inedible species, incidental catches, and those with higher than acceptable contaminant levels. |
| Conservation concerns and strategies, including the release of prime spawners (females), trophy fish, vulnerable species, and bedding fish, also encourage anglers to release some or all of their catch. | |
| Whatever the motive(s), and the MNR regs notwithstanding, anglers still must make the decision as to which fish are to be released or kept. And, with fish that are to be released, comes the responsibility of knowing and practising proper live release technqiues which will help insure the survival of the fish. |  C&R "Keepers" |