Pumping a fish to full recovery may take several minutes. I’ve worked them as long as 15 minutes before setting them free. Don’t be in a rush. Preserving the health and survival of that fish is the priority, not catching another one as soon as possible.
During the dog days of summer, when water temperatures reach annual highs, fish are more easily deprived of oxygen in the course of a fight. During these periods, quickly landing a fish is critical, as is taking the time to revive it.
If snapping pictures of the fish you want to release, do so close to the water surface and make it fast. Avoid hoisting the catch into the boat, laying it on the floor and removing the hooks. Hooks can be removed with the fish in the water, preferably with its head facing upstream.
If, for some reason, you do have to lift a fish that is targeted for release from the water, never do so by inserting a finger beneath the gill plate. Not only does this increase the likelihood of ripping a gill rake, it removes valued, protective slime, making the fish more susceptible to bacterial infection.
The golden rule when releasing a fish: Never let go until the fish is capable of swimming away under its own power. Never force or toss a fish into the river. If released prematurely, the fish will likely die.
By taking the time to properly revive and release a steelhead, salmon or trout, not only are you practicing sound etiquette, you’re promoting a strong fishery for future generations to enjoy. Take your time, safely and properly handle the fish, then get back to fishing.
Note: For signed copies of Scott Haugen’s how-to book, Summer Steelhead Fishing Techniques, send a check for $16.00 (includes S&H) to Haugen Enterprises, P.O. Box 275, Walterville, OR 97489. This and other education-based books, including cookbooks, can be ordered online at www.scotthaugen.com.