LOUGH SHEELIN VOLUNTARY CATCH & RELEASE
Sheelin anglers can play an important part in the protection of future stocks by retuning trout to the lake. Thankfully the practice of catch and release has been increasing on Lough Sheelin in recent years and will play an ever more important role as angling pressure on the lake increases.

Fishing Tackle
The angling method used can have a significant bearing on the survival rate of returned trout.
Angler’s intent on releasing trout should carefully consider the angling method used.
Trout caught by fly fishing using single barbless hooks, have a greater chance of survival than fish caught on barbed hooks or baits with double or treble hooks.
Barbless hooks do less damage, are easier to remove and reduce handling time which can be in important factor influencing survival. Barbed hooks can have the barb pinched with pliers to allow trout to be released more easily.
The fishing tackle used should be strong enough to enable the fish to be brought in quickly, taking account of the conditions and the possible size of the fish that might be caught.

Playing the Fish
Avoid exhausting the fish

Landing the Fish

Keeping a trout out of water for even a short period, for example to take a photograph, can significantly reduce its chances of survival.
If possible keep the trout in the water at all times.
Use a large diameter landing net with soft knotless mesh
No gaffs.
Always handle trout with wet hands.
Removing the Hook
Wet your hands and keep the fish in the water handling of the fish should be minimized
When necessary the fish should be supported from beneath and the hook gently removed either by hand or by means of long-nosed forceps
If a hook is deeply embedded and cannot be removed, the leader should be cut close to the hook, as fish released with the hook attached will generally survive
Do not squeeze the fish or hold it by the gills
Releasing and Reviving the Fish
After removing the hook or cutting the leader, the fish should be supported in the water facing into the current and given sufficient time to recover
Hold the fish gently until it is capable of swimming away strongly
Avoid weighing the fish
A tape measure can be used to take the approximate length while keeping the fish in the water

All guidelines courtesy of Central fisheries Board