Catch-and-release fishing, a decade of experience

This paper provides a synopsis of the 1987 symposium “Catch‐and‐Release Fishing– A Decade of Experience,” gives a brief history of the catch‐and‐release concept, and presents related research needs. Twenty‐three presenters provided current information concerning catch and release of a variety of freshwater and marine sport fish. Catch‐and‐release fishing was first tried in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1954. Today, most states and provinces in North America have catch‐and‐release programs on some waters. Catch‐and‐release regulations must be selectively applied; productivity of the environment and longevity of the fish are important considerations and strict compliance with special regulations by anglers is necessary for success. Anglers will accept these regulations when professionals present sound biological evidence to demonstrate the need. An increased use of catch‐and‐release regulations was reported in nontrout fisheries, especially those for largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides . Traditionally, most saltwater sport fish have not been released but, because of increased pressures on declining stocks, catchand‐release fishing now is promoted by concerned saltwater angler organizations.