Wild Animals

Wild Freshwater Fish Catch and Release

Catch and release angling is the dominant approach in UK freshwater fishing, and the welfare of released fish depends critically on handling techniques and water temperature at the time of capture.

Key Facts

Fish mortality after catch and release increases sharply in warm water above 18 degrees Celsius
Barbless hooks reduce handling time and hook injury significantly
Air exposure above 60 seconds substantially increases post-release mortality in many species
Wet hands, unhooking mats and immediate release minimise welfare impacts

Welfare Considerations

Fish subjected to catch and release experience acute stress from the fight, handling, air exposure and disorientation of release. At high water temperatures, stress hormones and lactic acid accumulate to levels that can be fatal within hours of release. Poorly executed catch and release with long air exposure, dry hands and delayed return to water causes fish to die slowly after apparent recovery.

What You Can Do

Use barbless hooks to reduce handling time and injury
Never remove fish from water for more than 30 seconds
Use a wet unhooking mat and wet hands when handling fish
Avoid angling in warm water conditions when fish recovery risk is highest