Proper Techniques for Live Release of Atlantic Salmon

• Remember, use only single barbless/pinched hooks
• Retrieve and release fish as quickly as possible
• Keep fish in the water during the release process
• Using a knotless meshed landing net is preferable over tailing a fish
• Carry and use needle-nose like pliers/tweezers to quickly remove hooks
• If hook doesn’t remove easily, cut the leader and leave it in the fish
• If you must handle a fish, use bare wet hands (not gloves)
• When taking a photo, remember only 5 seconds out of the water
• When releasing, hold the fish by the tail and point it upstream in a natural swimming position. Let the current flow naturally through the gills; do not push/pull the fish back and forth. Release the fish when you begin to feel strengthening tail movement