How long can a fish be out of water?

As short a time as possible. Aim to keep a fish you plan to release in or over the water, and if you lift it out for a photo, limit it to a few seconds and return it quickly.

Should I use wet or dry hands to hold a fish?

Wet hands or a wet cloth. Dry hands, towels and hot surfaces strip the protective slime from a fish's skin, which can lead to infection after release.

What is the best way to keep fish fresh in India's heat?

Kill it quickly, bleed it, and put it straight into an ice slurry of crushed ice and a little seawater or water in an insulated box. Keep it cold until you clean and cook or refrigerate it.

Which fish are protected in India?

Some sharks, rays, the giant grouper, seahorses and other marine species are protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, and states set their own rules on size, seasons and inland species. Always check the current rules for your area.

Fish Handling and Catch and Release: A Complete Guide

Fishing Journey

Fishing Journey › GuidesFish Handling and Catch and Release: A Complete GuideHow to handle, unhook, photograph and release fish so they survive, plus humane killing, ice slurry, ethics and protected species rules in India.