10/24/2026
Fish Handling Tips from Klamath Tribes Fish and Game
Step 1 — Land the fish carefully
Use a rubber or soft, knotless mesh net.
Keep the fish in the water while you prepare to remove the hook. Avoid dragging the fish onto rocks, dirt, sand, or dry grass.
Step 2 — Wet your hands first
Wet your hands before touching the fish.
Handle it gently with minimal pressure.
Never squeeze the belly, gills, or eyes, and avoid rubbing off its protective slime coat.
Step 3 — Remove the hook safely
Use forceps or long-nose pliers.
Keep the fish submerged whenever possible. If the hook is deeply swallowed, don’t pull it out forcefully. Cutting the line close to the hook may cause less damage.
Step 4 — Support the fish correctly
Support the fish horizontally with one hand near the front of its body and the other near the tail. Keep its body straight and supported. Never hang a fish vertically by its jaw, gills, or tail, especially a large salmon.
Step 5 — Revive and release
Keep the fish upright in clean, moving water.
Let it regain its balance and swim strongly on its own. Release it facing into the current when possible. Never throw it into the water or push it forcefully against the current.
