Catch and Release

The 7 golden rules for releasing large walleye

At our outfitter, we encourage the release of large walleye to protect the resource and breeding fish. Here are the best practices to follow:

• 1. Bring the fish in quickly
  Use appropriate equipment to avoid exhausting the fish unnecessarily.
• 2. Keep the fish in the water as much as possible
  Have your camera and tools ready before lifting the fish. Ideally, keep it out of the water for less than 30 seconds.
• 3. Always wet your hands
  Wet hands protect the fish’s mucus layer, which helps prevent infections.
• 4. Support the fish properly
  Never hold a large walleye by the jaw alone. Support the fish with one hand under the head and the other under the belly.
• 5. Remove the hook quickly
  Use pliers. If the hook is deeply swallowed, cut the line instead of injuring the fish.
• 6. Revive the fish properly
  Hold the fish upright in the water, facing the current or the movement of the boat, until it regains strength.
• 7. Let it swim away on its own
  Never throw the fish back into the water. Wait until it gives a strong tail kick and swims away on its own.

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