1. **Use Wet Hands**: Before handling a fish, wet your hands to minimize the removal of its protective slime coating. This slime is essential as it helps prevent infections.
2. **Avoid Gills and Eyes**: Always handle fish by the body, avoiding the gills and eyes. If you need to hold the fish, grip it gently but firmly around the body, particularly near the tail or the base of the pectoral fins.
3. **Keep Fish in Water**: If possible, keep the fish in water as much as you can. If you need to take it out for a quick photo, do it swiftly. A wet towel can also help if you need to hold the fish out of water briefly.
4. **Use Barbless Hooks**: If you’re fishing catch and release, consider using barbless hooks. They’re easier to remove and cause less damage to the fish.
5. **Minimize Time Out of Water**: Try to limit the time the fish spends out of the water. The longer a fish is out of water, the harder it is for it to recover.
6. **Revive the Fish**: If the fish appears exhausted after being caught, hold it in the water facing upstream, allowing the water to flow over its gills. This helps revive it before you release it.
7. **Release Carefully**: When releasing the fish, do so gently. Make sure it’s ready to swim away on its own. If it’s not swimming immediately, keep it in the water until it regains its strength.
8. **Respect Regulations**: Always follow local fishing regulations regarding size limits and species restrictions to help maintain sustainable fish populations.
By following these tips, you ensure that you contribute positively to the sport of fishing and the health of the fish population. Happy fishing!
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