Releasing Fish in Cold Weather

Deneki Outdoors

Editor's note: We ran this article in early spring, but it's worth repeating with the cold weather.

It might be cold out, but we hope that’s not keeping you from getting after it. Fly fishing in sub-zero temperatures might take a certain kind of crazy, but it can also be a lot of fun.

With that said, when the air temperature dips below freezing, special care should be taken when releasing fish. Many anglers are unaware that removing fish from the water in freezing temperatures can cause irreparable damage to soft tissues, namely gills and eyes.

Ever been surprised at how quickly your line and guides can freeze in the winter? Then you shouldn’t be surprised at how quickly wet gill tissue can freeze when lifted out of the water.

So, get out and have some fun in winter, but please please please limit air exposure when releasing fish!

Originally published here.