Proper fish handling is crucial for the well-being of the fish and to ensure its survival after release. Here are some best practices for fish handling: 1. Wet your hands before touching the fish to avoid removing its protective slime layer. 2. Use barbless hooks to make unhooking easier and less stressful for the fish. 3. Support the fish horizontally, especially larger ones, to prevent spine damage. 4. Minimize air exposure; keep the fish in the water as much as possible. 5. Use a landing net made of fish-friendly materials to avoid damaging the fish's scales. 6. If you need to handle the fish, do it gently and quickly, avoiding excessive squeezing. 7. Remove the hook carefully, using proper tools like long-nose pliers. 8. Revive the fish by holding it upright in the water and moving it back and forth to ensure proper oxygen flow through its gills. 9. Release the fish gently, facing it into the current for a swift and safe return to its environment.

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Topics covered in this question:

Catch And Release Fishing Techniques Fish Handling Fish Conservation