Eighth in a Series – The Retrieval and Release – You are hooked up, now what. Expect the fish to run. Let them take line. The fish will tire quickly if the drag is set right and you keep tension on the line. Remember, do not reel in line when they are running. This can cause the fish to break off or stretch your line.

The retrieve requires the angler to pump and reel to keep drawing the fish toward shore. If the fish is taking too much line, slightly adjust the drag to prevent it from being drawn off too fast. Smoothly raise the rod tip, then lower it while reeling. This is called pumping. You draw the fish nearer with each pump. Pump and reel until the fish tires.

In a short time, you will begin to feel that the fish is slowly tiring out. Use the waves to help bring the fish to shore. Stop reeling when the wave is pulling the fish out. But reel more quickly when the wave is coming toward the shore. Keep the rod tip up and pressure on the fish.

Once on the shore, the fish will continue to fight. I use a wet rag to hold the fish so to remove the hook. There is a slimy and slippery coating on all fish. They is a protectant against disease. Try to minimize wiping this substance off.

Nylon nets can really damage this protectant. If you need a net, try to use a plastic or vinyl type.

If you are harvesting this catch, promptly place in a cooler with ice.

If the fish is going to be released, make the fight short. The longer the fight the less likely the fish will survive after its release.

Also when releasing the fish, do so carefully. Hold the fish in your hand and place it in the water, watching for its movement to swim. Keep your hands or rag wet to avoid wiping the protectant, slim or scales off the fish.

Remember to never just throw it back in. A stunned fish is less likely to survive and is easy prey for a passing bird.

Until next time – Tightlines – Capt. Tony