Fishing From Boats
Big or small, motorized or outfitted with paddles, a boat simply allows you to cover more water. But for most folks, a boat simply makes fishing a lot more fun. The boat you choose should be based on where you want to fish and what kind of fish you’re stalking. Some boats are better on rivers, streams and ponds. And some are best used on large bodies of water. Choose your boat wisely and follow the rules.
- Know your boat and how to handle it.
- The water you’re in contains hazards such as submerged trees and rocks.
- Watch the weather conditions and follow emergency procedures.
- Always carry safety devices and know how to use them.
- The boat operator is legally responsible for the boat and the safety of those on board.
- Understand the rules of navigation, the courtesies of safe boating and always complete a boater safety course prior to operating a boat for the first time.
Catch and Release
Catch and release was first introduced in Michigan in 1952, as a way to reduce the cost of stocking hatchery-raised trout. Since then, conservationists and sport fisherman alike have promoted catch and release to ensure sustainability and avoid over fishing. Proper catch and release fishing techniques also reduce fish fighting and handling times and help avoid damage to fish skin, scales and slime layers— damage that can leave fish vulnerable to fungal skin infections.
Here are some simple rules.
- Don’t keep a fish out of water longer than you can hold your breath.
- Never tear a hook out of the fish. Make or purchase an efficient hook remover.
- If a fish loses consciousness, try to revive it by gently moving it forward and backward so water moves through its gills.
- When the fish begins to struggle and can swim, let it go.
