Catch and Release Best Practice
Legal requirements and best practices for handling fish to maximise survival rates after catch and release.
Summary for anglers only — not legal advice. Rules change; always check the official source linked on this page and GOV.UK before fishing.
While catch and release is not always legally mandated, it is required for certain protected species and in designated areas.
Best practice guidelines: - Use barbless or micro-barbed hooks where possible - Minimise time out of water — unhook fish in the water where practical - Wet your hands before handling fish - Support the fish horizontally, never by the gills or jaw alone - Do not use keepnets for specimen fish or in warm weather - Return fish gently, holding them facing upstream until they swim away
Some waters mandate catch and release for all fish or for specific species. Always check fishery rules before fishing.