As some Nevada anglers are aware, there is strong opinion throughout the Silver State regarding catching and keeping fish (and presumably eating them) vs. catching and releasing fish.  This debate is not limited to Nevada fishing…..

 

 

 

With many anglers having strong beliefs regarding “catch and keep” vs. “catch and release” fishing, the subject is sure to bring up a strong debate among Nevada anglers.

 

Whether you are able (or willing) to harvest fish to catch and keep, or you practice only  catch and release, your method also depends upon the body of water you’re fishing, current fish and wildlife regulations, and slot limits.  But what is the prevailing knowledge and opinion on both sides of the issue?

 

First, catch and release fishing practice strongly aligns with a conservation ethic that goes back decades in terms of sustaining Nevada’s fisheries and fisheries nation-wide.  Long term catch and release policies are believed to have saved fish populations from near extinction in Nevada fishing areas and across the country; especially where there is significant fishing pressure from the human population.

 

Secondly, catch and release anglers feel a strong sense of purpose in releasing the smaller fish to survive.  This intention leads to smaller fish will eventually living longer, thereby sustaining the overall fish population.

 

Better yet, there’s that future Nevada angler who will get the opportunity to possibly catch and release that same fish when it’s much larger.

 

On the flip side of the issue, proponents of “catch and keep” fishing have argued that science may support their practice….

 

Some studies indicate that catch and release practices, even when done properly, lead to 5-10% mortality rate .http://troutunlimitedblog.com/debate-is-catch-and-release-over-hyped/

 

Other studies suggest that fish species such as bass may have evolved to “learned behavior” patterns, instinctively avoiding certain types of lures that they species has experienced through catch and release experience.  In terms of fishery management, some biologists have begun to theorize that smaller more aggressive fish (fish below slot limits)  deplete food resources in the water faster than larger fish  http://www.bassresource.com/fishing/catch_and_release_bass.html

 

So can we strike a balance?    There will always be theories (and often science) to support both sides of the issue, but aren’t most Nevada anglers concerned about the same thing-keeping fishing alive and well in Nevada for now and for future generations of Nevada anglers?

 

No matter what side of the debate you’re on, it’s in your best interest to be thoroughly educated on your opinion.  There are plenty of Nevada anglers who are willing to keep the discussion going.

 

 

Next:  NOU examines the “catch and keep” vs. “catch and release” relating to Nevada fish taxidermy-