The Mail-Journal, Volume 21, Number 19, Milford, Kosciusko County, 23 May 1984 — Page 28

the PAPER - WED., MAY 23,1984

12

Treat catch well ehough to survive

It’s a tough world for the-offspring of all species of fish. For largemouth bass, less than five percent in natural reporduction even survive to catchable size. These environmental conditions serve to emphasize the importance of treating a catch so that it can be returned to the water and caught again. Catching and keeping are two entirely different aspects of fishing. Keeping fish is encouraged when plans nave been made to roll the catch in bread crumbs, and throw them in the frying pan. The same is true when a place on the wall in the den has been chosen for a trophy. Catching on the other hand, is something all anglers like to do, but not all fishermen do it well. Too often, fish are roughly handled and thrown back, with the expectation that they will live.-This is not always the case. Fish, have a protective mucus, a disease barrier, that covers their bodies. When this mucus is removed, the fish are much less likely to survive. Scraping along the side of the boat is an example of how the 'mucus is often removed. The secret to releasing fish is to try to keep the fish in the water at all times. Reel the catch in as close as possible to the position in which you are fishing. Next, follow the line from the rod to the tip of the bait or lure, grasping the fish firmly in one hand, and the bait or lure in the other. Now, gently work the fish against the hoqk, pushing the hook out while lifting. By leaving the fish in the water, stress on the physical structure and the organs and muscle tissue is minimized. Naturally, this method presents problems with larger fish that have more pronounced teeth. Pike and muskie can be held stationary by gripping them over the head and gill covers. Never handle a fish by grasping around the midsection, as all species will suffer damage if squeezed too hard.

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SUMMER

There are products on the market that can also help with larger fish. Such devices as hook removers that come in a variety of styles can make a good tool in any tackle box. The Fish America Sportsmanship Award is being offered by Zebco. The award is free to those anglers who qualify by releasing any of more than 30 species. Just send an official entry blank to Zebco at Fish America, Zebco Div. Brunswick Corp., PO Box 270, Tulsa, Okla., 74101, and receive a patch, decal and certificate for suitable -for framing.

National Fishing Week

This coming June 4-10 marks the sixth annual observance of National Fishing Week. It’s a major celebration of a favorite pastime, sponsored by the American Fishing Tackle Manufacturer’s Association. So, join in! The purpose of NFW is to make the public conscious — really aware of fishing, that great sport dreampt about all winter, and avoided the lawnmower for, come summer! Think of te other interests that could lure (no pun intended) the kids away from sharing those peaceful moments on the lake shore, watching the bobber at the end of the line. No one wabts to relinquish these times to video games, soccer, or whatever, right? Take time to encourage the wife and kids to join in the fourth most popular family sport in the nation, fishing. National Fishing Week is the time for derbies, just-for-kids, for senior citizens, for everyone. Find out who is planning one, and where it will be. Local dealers may be supplying tackle as prizes, so sign up the whole family. It will be worth the time spent.

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