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It is crucial that all fishermen use proper catch and release tactics on the tailwater. This is particularly important during the summer months when water temperatures are high and oxygen levels are low. In general, trout take longer to recover the smaller they are, the hotter the water temperature, or the longer they have been played. Here are some general guidelines and recommendations for proper catch and release fishing. 1. Play the fish as quickly and gently as possible. Smaller fish in particular should not be played simply to "put a fish on the reel." 2. If at all possible, avoid touching the fish, or, minimize the amount of handling. Fishing with barbless hooks makes releasing hooked fish much easier and does not adversly affect your hook-ups. You can pinch down the barb on your hooks with forceps. Landing nets can assist in minimizing handling. 3. As much as possible, keep your fish in the water. If you must take a photo, do so as quickly as possible and return the fish to the water. 4. After unhooking your fish, maintain control of him either by keeping him in your landing net or by gently cradling him in your hands. Face the fish upstream in some current to oxygenate his gills. Do not release him until you are confident the fish is rested and recovered. Most fish will swim away on their own power at this point. 5. Take the time to observe your fish after you release it. If it begins to founder or turn upside down, re-handle him and move him back in forth in the current until he is sufficiently revived. 6. Strongly consider limiting your fishing when water levels are low and temperatures are high. As a general rule, if water levels at the Brookville gauge are below 2.5 and water temperatures are above 70 degrees, you should consider fishing elsewhere. Perhaps most importantly, develop a personal conservation ethic around your fishing. The only one who knows if you have acted ethically is you ( and perhaps, the fish).
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