Here’s a great how-to video from my friend Carl McNeil, a New Zealand filmmaker and casting instructor best known for his “Once in a Blue Moon” and “Casts That Catch Fish.” Here, he shows very clearly the best ways to fight, net, and release a trout to ensure its health and survival. He even explains what the fisherman should do to get his “grip-and-grin” shot, keeping the fish in the water as much as possible. The vast majority of fly fishermen release their catch, but it never hurts to get a refresher course on the best ways to do it.
Every time I see one of these videos on releasing a fish, I ask myself have they drugged the fish,.
I have never had a trout sit still in the net during the hook removal process.
Any suggestions?
here is a suggestion / simply dont release them. wild fed trout are excellent on the grill.plus you can have a few cold ones and flip of the orvis snob across the river while watching it cook .