If you have ever caught a fish, then you know how exciting it is to finally bring your catch into the boat. But what to do after you catch a fish?
However, after landing your fish, there are a few things that you should do to ensure that it is safe and comfortable to transport back to shore.
First and foremost, make sure that you release any hooks or strings attached to the fish. Next, examine the fish closely for any damage or injuries. Finally, clean and prepare the fish according to your preferred cooking method.
How To Handle A Fish After You Catch It
Handling fish improperly can damage their scales and skin, which can lead to infection and death. Here are some tips on how to properly handle a fish after you catch it:
-Gently remove the hook from the fish’s mouth using needle-nose pliers or wire cutters. If you must use your hands, make sure to wet them first to avoid hurting the fish.
-If you are going to release the fish, hold it upright in the water and support its body with one hand underneath its belly. Grasp the tail firmly with your other hand and gently shake the fish back and forth until it swims away.
-If you are going to keep the fish, hold it horizontally in the water and support its body with one hand underneath its belly.
What To Do After You Catch A Fish
Here is a guide on how to handle a fish after it’s been caught in the reel.
Exhaust Its Energy
When you catch a fish, the first thing you should do is play with it to exhaust its energy. This will make it easier to handle and less likely to struggle.
Once the fish is exhausted, hold it by the tail and use a sharp knife to cut the spinal cord just in front of the tail. This will kill the fish instantly.
If you’ve managed to catch a fish, there are a few things you should do in order to keep it alive.
If you are going to release the fish, hold it by the tail and gently swing it back and forth in the water. Do not let go of the fish until it is exhausted and can barely swim.
Use Hand Fishing Net To Pull The Fish Up
If you are using a hand fishing net to get the fish in, make sure you scoop the net under the fish’s body. Avoid scooping up the fish’s head and fins.
When you lift the net, do so gently and slowly, making sure not to jerk or pull on the fish. If you are using a landing net, try to get the net as close to the water as possible before scooping up the fish.
Again, avoid jerking or pulling on the fish. When lifting the net, do so gently and slowly.
Be especially careful if there is a barb on the fish’s hook. Never try to remove a barb from a fish’s mouth with your hands.
If you are using a hand fishing net, use it to pull the fish up onto the deck of the boat. Be careful not to touch the fish with your hands, as this can remove the protective slime that coats their skin and make them vulnerable to infection.
Gently grasp the fish by its tail and lift it out of the water. If you are using a landing net, place it over the fish’s head and body before lifting it out of the water.
Be sure to support the weight of the fish so that its spine doesn’t snap. Use your other hand to cradle its belly if necessary.
Remove the Hook
Remove the hook from the fish’s mouth. If you’re having trouble doing this, use a pair of pliers or forceps to grip the hook and pull it free.
Be careful not to injure the fish’s mouth in the process.
Once the hook is removed, hold the fish gently by its body and slowly lower it back into the water.
Make sure that your hands are wet so that you don’t lose your grip on the fish. Keep an eye on it until it swims away safely.
Clean The Fish
Clean the fish if necessary. This includes removing any parasites or other gross bits. Remove any hooks from the fish’s mouth and gills.
Cut the fish into manageable pieces if necessary. This will help it cook more evenly and make it less intimidating for your dinner guests.
How To Store Fish After Catching
When you go fishing, you will likely end up with more fish than you can eat fresh. The question is, what do you do with the leftovers?
You can’t just leave them in the sun to spoil. Here are some tips on how to store fish after catching them.
-If you plan on keeping the fish, it’s important to ice them down as soon as possible. This will help keep them fresh and prevent them from spoiling.
Wrap the fish in a layer of newspaper and then place them in a plastic bag. You can then place the bag in a cooler filled with ice.
Keep the fish in the cooler until you’re ready to cook them. Make sure to discard any spoiled fish immediately.
-If you have a refrigerator, the best way to store fish is in a sealed bag inside the fridge. Make sure to put ice in the bag or on top of the fish to keep them cold. Fish can be stored this way for up to two days.
-If you don’t have a refrigerator, the next best option is to bury the fish in the ground. Dig a hole about two feet deep and lay the fish in it. Cover them with soil and pack it down well. This will keep them cold for up to 24 hours.
Tips For Catching Fish
If you’ve never caught a fish before, don’t worry, we’ll guide you through the process. Here are a few tips to make the most of your catch:
- Make sure to have a fishing license, and know the regulations in your area.
- Use the right kind of bait and tackle for the type of fish you’re trying to catch.
- Be patient, and wait for the right moment to set the hook.
- Don’t play with your fish once you’ve caught it – release it back into the water as quickly as possible.
- Take pictures of your catch, and share them with us on social media.
Final Words
In conclusion, you should always take care of the fish that you have caught. Make sure to wet your hands before you touch the fish and be gentle when you remove the hook. If you are going to release the fish, make sure to do so quickly and carefully.