Catch-and-release angling is increasingly popular but raises welfare questions about the pain and stress experienced by fish during capture, handling, and release.
The welfare of fish in catch-and-release angling has received increasing scientific and public attention. Fish clearly experience physiological stress during capture and handling, with cortisol levels remaining elevated for hours post-release. The pain question is more contested, but current evidence suggests fish have the capacity for nociception. Welfare-conscious anglers minimise air exposure, use wet hands or landing mats, barbless hooks, and appropriate gear to reduce fight time. Some habitats and species show very high post-release mortality, raising questions about whether catch-and-release should be practised in those contexts. Angling organisations are increasingly promoting welfare codes of practice.