In a collaborative effort involving for-hire captains, private recreational anglers, scientists and fisheries managers, the Return 'Em Right initiative has been established to improve the survival rates of released reef fish. The initiative has led to the development of the Return ‘Em Right Best Release Practices Manual and accompanying fact sheets found at returnemright.org/bestpractices/, providing anglers with a standardized set of guidelines for releasing reef fish responsibly.

Importance of Best Release Practices:

The safe handling and release of recreationally caught fish are crucial for maintaining healthy fish populations. While an individual angler may release a relatively small number of fish in a single outing, the collective impact of millions of saltwater recreational anglers in the Gulf of Mexico results in millions of caught and released fish. Unfortunately, a significant portion of these released fish does not survive.

Fish caught in shallower waters, up to 50 feet, generally survive release when handled properly. However, those reeled up from depths beyond 50 feet may require additional assistance due to barotrauma—an injury caused by pressure-related changes in a fish's tissues and organs. Recognizing the variability in fishing techniques, depths, and environmental conditions, the Return ‘Em Right initiative emphasizes the importance of informed decision-making during fishing trips to maximize the chances of a fish surviving release.

Contents of the Manual:

Collaborating with recreational anglers, for-hire captains, fisheries managers, and scientists, the Return ‘Em Right program has compiled a comprehensive manual on best release practices. The manual covers key decision points, including preparing for a fishing trip, choosing a fishing location, fighting fish, handling and releasing fish, encountering predators, and wrapping up a trip.

Key On-Water Elements for Releasing Reef Fish:

• Effective catch and release depend on the situation, requiring anglers to be informed and make the best decisions based on conditions.
• If a fish shows no signs of barotrauma, use a dehooking device for a swift release.
• If a fish exhibits signs of barotrauma, dehook the fish using a dehooking device, when appropriate, and descend the fish (or vent if descending isn't feasible).

Project Funding and Partnerships:

This $30 million initiative, funded by the Deepwater Horizon Open Ocean Trustee Implementation Group as part of the 2019 Open Ocean Restoration Plan, has garnered support from partners such as the NOAA Restoration Center, Florida Sea Grant, Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission and a coalition of anglers, industry groups, state agencies, universities, government and non-government organizations.