Below is a list of a fisherman’s or fisherwoman’s arsenal plus some tips

• Fish Rod – Bait Casting, Spinning, Telescopic, Fly Rods and more
• Fishing Reel – Bait Casting, Spinning, Fly Reels and more
• Clothing for Fishermen – Male and Female
• Fishing Equipment for Children, Boys and Girls
• Fish Hooks – an enormous range for various types of fishing
• Lures and Flies
• Fishing Line, Braided and Nylon and everything in between
• Fishing Accessories – impossible to list all that is available
• Fishing Combos – Rod and Reel plus other needed goodies all in one

I recommend CATCH AND RELEASE and here are a few tips to use. While originally used extensively as the domain of Fly Fishermen, “catch and release” is now practiced by most fishermen. Fish stocks worldwide are under pressure, some types more that other so unless you catch for the pot release the fish. Most of us unfortunately have no idea if the fish is male or female, carrying eggs or not therefore releasing the fish safely back to its habitat is the right thing to do.

Treble Hooks are a No-No!

Use Circle Hooks. These hooks are designed so that the point is turned away from the shank to form a circular shape. The Circle Hook has been heavily researched and is a must for all catch-and-release anglers. Get rid of the Barb on the hook.Use a pair of pliers or forceps to squash the barb down. This makes for much more interesting fishing as you need to keep the line taught so that the fish does not spit out the hook. Barbless hooks are much safer, easier and quicker to remove therefore causes less stress for the fish.

Be Careful!!

Be mindful of the fact that hooking a fish is extremely stressful for it. Too much stress can let the fish die even after hours after release.

• To combat this problem use oversize equipment to land the fish as soon as possible.
• Wet your hands before handling a fish.
• Use a net that will not damage the fish.
• Use surgical forceps or special pliers plus a tool that may cut the metal of the hook if needed.
• If your forceps/pliers will not release the hook then cut the line where it is tied to the hook. The hook will rust soon and give the fish a better chance of recovery.

Another No-No!

Never ever try to remove a hook through the fish’s gills. In fact do not touch the gills at all.

CPR

Fish may appear lethargic when released. Hold the fish into the stream or in still water hold the fish gently and move it backwards and forwards until you sense that it is ready to be released.

And now the most important issue!

• While the catch and release issue but it is certainly at the forefront of saving our oceans for future generations.
• You have no doubt seen on the news and other TV programs about global pollution of the oceans. It is in everyone’s interest to be responsible!
• Leave the area better than you found it. Always take a container or bag with you to take your rubbish, used line, lures, flies, bait containers and more with you to dispose of in the correct manner.