6 must-have tools for safely releasing fish

Properly releasing fish requires anglers to perform a series of potentially complicated tasks, often in a rocking boat, swiftly flowing water or cold, rainy conditions. You have to get a powerful, slippery creature under control and remove one or more hooks without injuring the animal or yourself, then quickly return the fish to its watery domain. And like any tricky operation, you need the right tools for the job.

LANDING NET

Match your net to the fish—a net that’s too big can create as many problems as one that’s too small. Sizes range from small, shallow teardrop nets carried by wading trout anglers, to giant hoops for muskies and salmon. The mesh on any net should also be coated or rubber, which protects the fish and gets less tangled with hooks.

CRADLE

For landing giant fish, some anglers prefer a cradle, which allows you to leave the fish in the water while unhooking it. Cradles should also have a coated mesh; some even have integrated scales. Using a cradle requires some skill, however, and more than one angler to get the job done.

LIP GRIPPER

The most popular lip-griping tools are the metal BogaGrip (above left) and the plastic Fish Grip (above right). Both take up much less room than a net, making them well suited for solo anglers in small or low-freeboard boats, where it’s easy to reach over the side and grab the fish. Bogas are pricey, but the long, rigid handle helps control strong fish. Plastic grips are less expensive, and they float if you drop them in the water.