Is Catch-And-Release Relevant to Recreational Fishing?

Every sport fisherman -read also, recreational angler-worth his salt and water has one time or another intentionally released a caught fish. Probably because it is too small to take home, too big for the cooler, not the desired species, or the angler simply wants to fish, period. But perhaps the best reason is that it is illegal to keep the fish according to the fishing regulations of the locality. Beyond them, however, are other rationales that make catch-and-release a viable and beneficial practice in saltwater and freshwater recreational fishing.

Angler-to-fish ratio

Recreational fishing's ever-growing popularity has developed a scenario of a lot of people for so few fish. On top of that, the continuing growth of human population places a considerable stress not only on the fish stocks but also on their habitats, not the least of them being pollution. Even the construction of dams to regulate potable water for human consumption curtail in some ways fish movement to and from their traditional spawning grounds, seasonal migration, breeding habits and feeding activities. Unrestricted harvesting will thus decimate fish population faster, probably depleting stocks and killing a substantial industry that depends on it as well.

Fishing trip economics

A typical fishing trip gets more expensive today more than ever, what with the rising costs of fuel and engine parts and maintenance, among many reasons. Add to that the attendant purchase of fishing and boating gear, tackle, bait and personal needs (i.e., food, sun protection lotions, clothing, etc.) and you can have an idea of how much an angler spends to go on a fishing trip.

Thus, it is impractical to end a good day of fishing simply because the bag limit has been reached. With catch-and-release, the fishing day can be extended and enjoyment prolonged, giving more value for the money expended. And, there is also the longer time for bonding and camaraderie, which is another very enjoyable aspect of fishing trips.

Expertise development

As an angler develops expertise in his field of interest, he shifts to 'catch quality' from 'catch quantity'. It means he no longer measures fishing success by the number or total weight of the catch, but via the size or species of fish he catches. Fishing for him becomes fish-specific, his expertise determined by how quickly he catches his target fish or how often. Since he cannot take home all he catches every time he goes fishing, catch-and-release is the only way he can go on fishing to perfect his art after he reaches his limit.

Return bouts

A caught fish if released can be caught another day, perhaps even by the same angler. But at least, it can give enjoyment to an angler later, be it the same or another.

Many anglers and recreational fishing enthusiasts consider catch-and-release fishing as solely an environmental concern, focused on preserving the fish stocks in a specific fish habitat. But as stated above, it can also benefit the angler himself in at least three ways. So, even for selfish reasons alone, why not practice catch-and-release? You help yourself, your activity of interest, the recreational fishing industry, and nature and the environment.

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