Rockfish release and descenders

[Larry H]

There was a discussion on another forum about releasing and returning rockfish to the bottom.

Here is a link to a Sea Grant PDF explaining how to release and descend rockfish to ensure their survival.


http://www.dfg.ca.gov/marine/pdfs/release.pdf

 

[416rigby]

VENTING: A sharp needle or steel cannula is used to puncture a fish’s inflated swim bladder.
The California Department of Fish and Game does not currently encourage venting as it can cause
serious injury to fish and angler. You may accidentally puncture the wrong organ and/or introduce
infection. Even when done properly, venting damages a fish’s swim bladder.

Funny...in the Gulf of Mexico venting tools are REQUIRED onboard when fishing for reef fish and they make a point of getting you to vent your fish. You'd think the scientist types would get together on this one.

Rick