Catch-and-release fishing is just what it sounds like. You catch a fish and release it in the same water you caught it in. When finishing in Texas, whether you are keeping the fish or going out for some fun catch-and-release fishing, you must have a Texas fishing license with the proper endorsement. If you are fishing in the Gulf of Mexico, you need a saltwater endorsement, and likewise for freshwater lakes, rivers, etc. So, the real question is, “Can you catch and release fish out of season in Texas?” Let’s find out.
How Do You Catch and Release Fish Without Killing Them?
Catching and releasing fish is a fun way to spend the day if you know how to avoid killing the fish in the process. Here are some equipment tips and fishing strategies to avoid killing fish during your catch-and-release fishing expedition.
Equipment
These equipment tips will lessen the stress on fish and help them survive after their release.
- Use circle or barbless hooks, or crimp the barb down on hooks for easier release.
- Use non-stainless steel hooks, as they will corrode over time and fall off the fish if you cannot remove them or the fish breaks your line.
- Ensure your tackle is strong enough to land the fish quickly so it does not exhaust itself fighting.
- If needed, use a wet, soft mesh net or rubber net to prevent any disturbance to the fish’s mucus coating, eyes, fins, gills, etc.
You should also invest in a dehooker or other release tool to minimize handling the fish. A release tool also makes it easier to release the fish without taking it out of the water.
Best Practices for Catch and Release
Here are some best practices for catching and releasing fish for its best chance of survival.
- If possible, release the fish in the water. If you cannot, keep air exposure to 60 seconds or less.
- If you must handle the fish, make sure your hands are wet and do not touch the fish’s eyes or gills.
- If you have to remove the fish from the water, support its body with your hands. Avoid holding the fish by its lip or mouth.
- When releasing a fish, hold the fish’s belly. If it does not swim away quickly, you can resuscitate the fish by holding its mouth toward the current until it can swim away independently.
Also, if the fish swallows the hook or you cannot remove it easily, cut the line as close to it as possible.
What Happens if You Accidentally Catch a Fish Out of Season?
If you accidentally catch a fish out of season, you need to release it immediately with the least amount of harm. Do not attempt to keep the fish. Violating Texas fishing laws is a misdemeanor, either class A, B, or C, that can result in fines up to $4000 and up to a year of jail time, depending on the severity of the offense.
Boat Stop Marina Helps You Understand if You Can Catch and Release Fish Out of Season
Can you catch and release fish out of season in Texas? Yes, but if you do, release them right away without causing the fish harm. Punishment for violating Texas fishing laws can result in hefty fines and/or jail time. If you are visiting Corpus Christi and want to learn more about Texas fishing laws and tips and tricks for catch-and-release fishing, contact us at Boat Stop Marina.