catch and release · conservation · fishing ethics ·Feb 03, 2026

Catch and Release Best Practices

by Spooled Out Australia

Catch and Release: Doing Right by Our Waters, Mate

Out here in Australia's wild blue, few things hit the spot like landing a ripper catch. But at Spooled Out, we reckon it’s not just about what you take, it’s about what you give back. That’s why we’re all in on the art of catch and release—a proper way to fish that helps keep our waterways chocka for the next generations of legends.

Why Bother with Catch and Release?

Conservation: Too right, mate. Letting breeding fish go keeps populations healthy and waters full of life.
Bigger Fish, Better Fights: The more fish we let grow, the more chances you get to land that trophy you’re after.
Ethical Angling: It’s about respect—respect for the environment and the creatures we go hard chasing.

The Gear You'll Need (and What to Skip)

To fish like a true catch and release champ, having the right tackle is vital:

Barbless Hooks: These legends make unhooking quick and easy, causing minimal damage to the fish’s gob.
Soft Landing Net: Grab a knotless, rubberised net to protect your catch’s slime coat and fins.
Long-Nose Pliers or Forceps: Essential for swift, safe hook removal so the fish can get back to business.
Wet Gloves (Optional): These can help shield the fish’s delicate skin while you handle them.

The Release: A Step-by-Step Guide for Legends

Minimise Fight Time: Get the fish in quick, mate. Dragging it out tires them right out.
Keep ’Em Wet: Fish out of water is like us holding our breath—keep ’em submerged whenever you can.
Handle with Care: Support their belly, avoid squeezing, and never hold by the gills.
Quick Hook Removal: Use your pliers to gently back the hook out. If it’s hooked deep, cut the line close to the hook instead.
Revive If Needed: If your catch looks sluggish, hold it in the water facing into the current until it swims off strong.

Top Tips from the Spooled Out Crew

Know Your Species: Some fish are more delicate than others. Make sure to check local regs and best practices.
Avoid the Sun: Direct sunlight is brutal—keep your catch shaded while handling.
Educate Your Mates: Share the know-how. The more anglers practicing catch and release, the better for all of us.

So, next time you’re out on the water, keep this golden rule close: look after your finned mates, and they’ll look after you. Tight lines, legends!