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I was just reading the post on the Dahlberg incedent. There is a lot to say about this issue, but I will leave that topic for one more relevent. I have seen a lot of anglers on the local river and have seen them catch and release a lot of fish- most are pretty good about how they handle there catch- far too many use the drag up onto the beach and boot the released fish back into the water covered in sand and grime method. The first couple of times I saw this I was horrified- the next couple of times I gave the offenders a few choice words- then I realized that for the most part (by their reactions to my tirades) that they just didn't have a clue- most were once in a blue moon fishers that were out to "catch a big salmon". After that I tried a more peaceful approach and generally most people are pretty responsive(especially if you don't make them feel stupid)- If someone has just comitted a fishing crime- let-em-know but make a friend in the process - or if you see a guy fishing by himself and he is dragging his catch up the beach give him a hand- it is a lot easier to release a fish with two people. Maybe that guy will tell some of his buddies next time he is out. In the end if your pissed off at them- and you piss them off back- nobody wins and the combat-bring your own rock-fishing scenario continues. I have fished in other crowded fisheries where conflict was minimal- generally this was because people talked to each other on the river/lakes instead of maintaining the tight lipped spy vs spy attitudes so prevelent here on the south coast.
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I agree with you Cory, We are all out there to enjoy the day why not make a few friends and catch a few fish together. Who knows the next to you could be your neighbor or a friend of friend.
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I net the Salmon with a catch and release net by Brodin company. There are cheaper catch and release nets by Gibbs. My fish is caught in the net and it is immobilized enough for me to un hook it. Not much sand and I do not rub the fish on my clothes or boat. I know it is a hassle to bring the net while wading or small boat fishing; but it is the least we can do for the animal which gives us sport.
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Good post Cory. I too have seen behaviour on the south coast streams that made me want to scream. I particularly don't like the drag and boot method of release. The other thing that upsets me is the person who casts over the line of a person with a fish on. Then snags fish and terminal gear. These people have no respect for the fish or fellow humans. Your non confrontational attitude is admirable and perhaps by example and education, the offenders can learn some sportsmanship. What we don't need is a road rager on the streams. I know I'm not comfortable confronting people in offensive/criminal situations, but obviously we all need to try or someone will make a decision to close us all down. Perhaps one of the fishing clubs like the Driftfishers, BCWF or TU can produce a brochure or pamphlet that could be handed out on stream, something from one of Haig Brown's books maybe. Probably another source of litter but maybe worthwhile. What do you think?
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Sandy The B.C Driftfishers Federation has a pamphlet and posters entitled "Handle with Care". We have in the past, tried to place these posters in conspicuous locations of the Chiilliwack/Vedder. The contents of the pamphlets and poster can be seen on our web page at www.corp.direct.ca/driftfishers/handle.htm When we have had membership drives on the Vedder we like to hand out copies of this pamphlet to the obvious newbies (when they are receptive to advice) Sometimes the advice is well received, sometimes you take your life in your hands. We are always encouraging new members, and our annual membership fees are really cheap. For only $10 you get membership in the Federation that is being recognized by most government agencies as the voice of river anglers in B.C. You also get three newsletters per year and access to some of the most current information on river fishing issues around. Check out our website and all the pages. I'm sure you'll be convinced that its a very minor investment for a collective voice for all river anglers.
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About catch and release methods. I find the most successful way of handling a fish with minimal disturbance to the beauties is to hold them by the caudal peduncle (just forward of the tail), keep them in the water and turn the fish upside down (belly up). This causes the fish to "freeze" and they don't struggle because its a completely unnatural position from them. It allows you to remove your hook (and others left behind by fisherman who lost the fish)with ease, and makes recovery of the fish much more rapid when releasing them because the are not struggling and they are getting oxygen while you unhook them. Tight lines and conserve your catch.
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