Tag Archives: Fishing Tips

3 Tips for Catch & Release Fishing

3 Tips for Catch & Release Fishing

Catch and release is a popular technique among fishermen who want to enjoy the sport without harming the fish they catch. However, when done improperly, it can lead to a high mortality rate among fish despite your best intentions.

To make sure fish are unharmed from the time you reel them in to when you release them from the hook, follow these three easy tips.

Use the right gear

One of the most important things you can do to ensure the safety of the fish you catch is to use the proper gear.

It is suggested to use circle or barb-less hooks as they cause less injury and make hook removal much easier.

You can even use a soft, rubberized or knotless net to catch your fish, greatly increasing the fish’s chance of survival.

Be an efficient fisherman

Another key to being successful at catch and release fishing is to have a quick transition from the time you catch a fish to the time you release it.

There should be no more than 2 minutes in between the initial catch and the eventual release. To accomplish this, it is suggested to use heavier tackle so you can land fish quickly and get them off the hook.

Handle with care

Once you have made a catch and are getting ready to release it, there are several things to remember to keep the fish free from harm.

It is suggested to avoid handling the fish too much, and when you do touch them, make sure to wet your hands first to avoid removing any protective coating. It is also essential that you avoid putting your fingers in gills or eyes.

Before placing the fish in the water, give it a few seconds to regain its normal breathing patterns, and make sure that the fish is upright and can swim freely before releasing it.

Should you be an avid fisherman that enjoys catch and release fishing, we invite you to come see us at Mattice Lake Outfitters.

Our outfitter is located along the Ogoki-Albany river system in Northwestern Ontario and offers fully furnished cabins, outpost camps and wilderness lodges for your convenience.

For unforgettable fishing, hunting, canoeing and more that the whole family will enjoy, make sure to give us a call today at 1-800-411-0334 to book your stay!

3 Facts Every Fisherman Should Know About Walleye

3 Facts Every Fisherman Should Know About Walleye

While Walleye are some of the most common freshwater fish in Northwestern Ontario, there is always more that can be learned about this unique game. If you’re planning an upcoming fishing trip, be sure to read on to learn a few facts that will help you reel in the walleye you’ve always dreamed of. Whether… Continue Reading

Tips for Catching Northern Pike

Tips for Catching Northern Pike

When planning a fishing trip to an area with a high concentration of northern pike, there are a few things to brush up on to increase your chances of getting consistent bites. Knowing the fish’s behavior, where they like to feed, which type of bait they’re attracted to and a few other common traits will… Continue Reading

Our Guide for Reeling in a Big Fish

Our Guide for Reeling in a Big Fish

When you’re out fishing, catching a large fish is always an exciting surprise. However, once you hook a large fish, it can be difficult to reel them in. Larger fish like carp, catfish, and bass will often put up a fight once they’ve been hooked. To help you secure your next big catch, here are… Continue Reading

How to Organize Your Tackle Box

How to Organize Your Tackle Box

We’ve all been there, digging through our messy tackle box, trying to find that one lure we need to fish. Spending unnecessary time searching through your box to find these needed items can waste precious time that you could be spending focusing on the water. Don’t waste your time searching and risk injuring yourself by… Continue Reading

Fishing in The Summer Heat

Fishing in The Summer Heat

The official start to summer is less than two weeks away which means it will be peak season for fishing. During the hot summer months, it can be easy to overheat while fishing. It is important to regulate your body temperature to ensure that you don’t become exhausted by the heat. There are many different… Continue Reading

Fishing Hacks for The Angler On A Budget

Fishing Hacks for The Angler On A Budget

  Fishing is an excellent way to relax and reconnect with nature. Whether you fish alone or with family, spending time in nature can help reduce stress and anxiety. Throughout the years this activity has become increasingly popular and has grown into a billion-dollar industry. According to a 2016 survey conducted by the National Survey… Continue Reading