For anglers fishing under catch and release rules, it is important to understand both the legal requirements and the practical steps that can help minimise handling time and avoid unnecessary injury to fish.

What Does Catch and Release Mean?

The legal framework is set out in The Foyle Area (Control of Fishing) Regulations 2010.

Under the Regulations, catch and release angling means:

• Using a single barbless hook with a gape not exceeding 12mm.

• Not using earthworms as bait.

• Returning any salmon, sea trout or brown trout caught immediately to the water without avoidable injury.

Practical Catch and Release Guidance

The Loughs Agency recommends a number of simple measures when practising catch and release.

Use Appropriate Tackle

Tackle should be suitable for the size of fish being targeted, enabling fish to be landed and released promptly.

Keep Fish in the Water Where Possible

If a fish can be unhooked without removing it from the water, this is generally the preferred approach.

Use a Suitable Landing Net

A knotless or soft-mesh landing net can help reduce damage to fins, scales and skin.

Handle Fish Carefully

Wet hands before handling fish and avoid contact with the gills. Fish should be supported carefully and not squeezed.

Minimise Air Exposure

Where photographs are being taken, fish should be returned to the water as quickly as possible.

Allow Fish to Recover

If a fish appears tired after being landed, hold it upright in the current until it is able to swim away strongly on its own.

Further Information

Additional guidance on catch and release is available from the Loughs Agency, including its guidance document A guide to practising catch and release when game angling.

Ultimately, successful catch and release involves complying with the Regulations and handling fish in a manner that avoids unnecessary injury and reduces time out of the water.