In order to minimize injury to the fish during the hook and release process, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans encourages anglers to be familiar with the correct handling procedures. Keep the following points in mind:
Do
Play the fish quickly; try to bring it within reach without exhausting it.
Move to quiet water.
Keep the fish in the water while releasing it. Remove the hook (a) with pliers, (b) with thumb and forefinger, or (c) by cutting the leader.
Support the fish under the belly, facing into the current, as it recovers.
Release the fish when it has fully recovered.
Don't
Play the fish to exhaustion.
Beach the fish.
Hold the fish by the gills or tail.
Use a tailer or gaff to handle the fish.
Hold the fish out of water for picture taking - keep the fish in the water.
One of the most serious injuries a salmon can suffer is the loss of scales. Handle the fish as little and as gently as possible in order to minimize such injury, and do not play it onto beach rocks. Barbless hooks and light leaders are recommended as aids to hook and release.
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