What’s the best way to keep walleye alive when I catch and release?

The best way to keep walleye alive when doing a catch and release is not as easy as one might think. First off, you are not going to reel the walleye in and handle it roughly then release it. It will ultimately die. The same holds true if the hook has been swallowed, it may puncture the bladder, which will cause the fish to die when they swim into the deeper waters. If you plan to do a catch and release when fishing for walleye, you need to handle the fish gently. If you are going to catch and release the fish, you need to immediately return it to the same water you caught it in. You cannot keep the fish out of water very long. If you want pictures, may it quick and hold the fish the right way, not by the gills. If possible, when removing the hook, keep the fish in water where possible. Do not squeeze the fish or roughly remove the hook. You need to remove the hook gently and if you cannot get it out, cut it as close to the hook as possible and leave the rest embedded. Never throw the fish back into the water, hold the fish underneath, place it gently into the water, and hold it a few minutes so it can stabilize itself before swimming off. If you practice these steps, the fish will live after releasing it into the water. Another thing you might consider is using barb less hooks for fishing the walleye.

Tags: walleye fishing baits, kansas walleye fishing, fishing for walleye, walleye fishing, walleye lake erie, pa walleye fishing, walleye fishing guide