For thousands of years, fishing has been a vital source of food for various people around the world. No matter the technique, the act of catching a fish was done more so for survival rather than sport. In modern times, however, fishing has turned into a pastime for millions across the globe. With this comes the argument for catch and release fishing – why it is an essential part to responsible angling and the way in which it plays a key role in sustainable fishing.
There is more to catch and release fishing than the name suggests. The intent behind the act is just as important than the act itself. With that being said, here are a couple of reasons why you should practice catch and release fishing next time you are out on the water.
Size Matters
Releasing a fish back into the water gives it more time to grow. As with all specimen on the planet, when fish reproduce, their genes get passed down to their offspring. Catch and release fishing also allows for the complete cycle of reproduction, leading to a bigger pool of fish and, in turn, happier fisherfolk. Not allowing a fish to grow to its full potential limits chances for fisheries to produce trophy fish, which leads us to the next reason.
Keeping the Sport Alive
As an avid fisherman myself, I have gotten the opportunity to travel coast to coast and witness how fishing is truly regarded as a sport. Whether it be fly fishing for trout out west, fishing subsurface lures for huge northern Ontario bass, or casting seven-inch swim baits for schooling striped bass in the Atlantic, the activity is undoubtedly a sport. There have been studies done, such as the one done by the Marine Fish Conservation Network, that show concentrations of fish have diminished due to the lack of catch and release fishing.
Each province and territory has an extensive list of regulations when it comes to catching fish in order to allow fisheries across the country to thrive and remain sustainable. These rules and regulations dictate where, when, what, and how many fish one is allowed to keep.
Now, this doesn’t mean that every fish you catch must be released – let’s be honest, a well-cooked fish fry is always a treat. The point of catch and release is not to take away enjoyment, but to encourage awareness and responsible fishing practices. By learning which fish to release and which can be kept, anglers help maintain healthy populations while still enjoying their catch.
Works Cited
McMurray, J. (2025, January 30). What’s Really Going On With Striped Bass? Marine Fish Conservation Network. https://conservefish.org/2025/01/30/whats-really-going-on-with-striped-bass/
Lawrence Bay Lodge. (2024, November 22). 3 advantages to catch and release fishing. Lawrence Bay Lodge. https://www.lawrencebay.com/3-advantages-to-catch-and-release-fishing/
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