Netting: Land fish quickly with strong tippet and net!
Holding: Keep fish in water as much as possible!
Releasing: What a satisfying thing to do!
Tip: Handle fish with wet hands!

Try this method out next time you wish to release a fish and you will see for yourself how easy and effective it is.

• Use the strongest tippet possible to ensure your success, but also to shorten the battle with the fish.

• Use barb-less or crushed barb hooks. The latter is preferred because the hook does not penetrate so far.

• Use a net, ideally with a knot-less mesh.

• Avoid dragging the trout over shallow water and onto rocks etc. Try not to walk in front of your netted fish, especially over a sandy bottom, so that the fish is not getting silt and sand in its gills.

• Keep your capture under the water all the time until ready for a photo and release.

• Once netted, squeeze the fish gently just in front of the tail and hold it upside down. The pressure must be firm and applied directly on top of the back and underneath. Do not squeeze the sides. The trout should, with this pressure applied correctly, be "knocked out" and consequently will not damage itself by struggling.

• The lure or fly can now be removed with the free hand.

• If a photo is desired, get your companion to have the camera ready prior to holding up the fish, so that it is kept out of the water for the least time possible. Aim for no longer than 10 seconds and if there is a problem with the camera, it is better to replace the trout in the water until ready again!

Nice nature, nice fish, look after them!

• Place the trout back in the water facing the current. If possible try to choose a spot where the current is not too strong and where the fish has access to cover, like an undercut bank or a deep drop-off.

• Release the pressure while supporting the trout underneath and it should regain its senses and depart quickly if the operation has been carried out correctly.

Preferably use wet gloves when handling trout to reduce knocking off scales and slime and for a better grip. If you don’t have gloves, a wet sock or wet hands will do. Never use dry hands.