1. **Use the Right Tools**: Always have a pair of pliers or a hook remover handy to minimize handling time. This reduces stress on the fish.
2. **Wet Your Hands**: Before handling the fish, wet your hands to protect its slime coating, which is essential for its health and helps prevent infections.
3. **Minimize Air Exposure**: Keep the fish in the water as much as possible. If you must take it out for a photo, do so quickly and return it to the water promptly.
4. **Handle with Care**: Support the fish's body horizontally. Avoid squeezing it, and never hold it by the gills or eyes.
5. **Remove the Hook Gently**: If the hook is deep, consider cutting the line instead of trying to remove it, as this can cause less harm to the fish.
6. **Revive the Fish**: If the fish appears lethargic after being released, hold it in the water facing upstream to help water flow over its gills. This will aid in oxygenation.
7. **Release at the Right Time**: Try to release fish quickly, especially in warmer water, as prolonged handling can be detrimental to their health.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the fish you catch have a better chance of survival after being released, contributing to sustainable fishing practices. Happy fishing!
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