1. **Use Proper Gear**: Use barbless hooks when fishing for pike, as they reduce injury to the fish and make it easier to remove the hook. A net with a rubber coating is also recommended to minimize slime loss and injury.
2. **Keep Them in Water**: Whenever possible, keep the pike in the water while unhooking. If you must remove it from the water, do so quickly and support its body to avoid stress and injury.
3. **Wet Your Hands**: Before handling the pike, wet your hands to protect its slime coat, which is crucial for its health. Avoid touching the gills and eyes, as these areas are sensitive.
4. **Minimize Air Exposure**: Limit the time the pike spends out of water. If you need to take a photo, do it quickly and return the fish to the water as soon as possible.
5. **Revive the Fish**: If the pike appears lethargic or disoriented after release, hold it upright in the water and gently move it back and forth to help water flow over its gills until it swims away on its own.
6. **Be Mindful of Temperature**: Pike are more susceptible to stress in warmer waters. If the water temperature is above 75°F (24°C), consider postponing your fishing trip for the sake of the fish.
By following these practices, you can help ensure the pike you catch can thrive after being released back into its habitat.
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