Repeat Customers: Proof of Catch and Release Effectiveness

The issue of catch-and-release fishing has always been a controversial topic among anglers. While some fishermen prefer to keep their catches and enjoy a fresh meal, others balk at the idea of harming the fish they catch. Some believe that keeping fish can be detrimental to a fishery, while some may not pay much attention to how their actions impact the populations they fish. However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to managing fisheries. Some systems may benefit from removing fish, like in the case of stunted lake trout populations in many Maine lakes. In contrast, certain species like Arctic grayling may not be able to withstand high retention rates from anglers. As an angler, I enjoy both catch-and-release fishing and the satisfaction of filling up my freezer with fillets. Nonetheless, I believe anglers should be mindful of when, why, and where they choose to retain fish.

When we fish for Arctic Grayling, we make sure to practice catch-and-release almost exclusively. The reason for this is that these fish grow very slowly and take more than ten years to reach their full size. The big adult males are particularly striking, often sporting a beautiful dorsal fin that stands out from the rest. These individuals are considered true trophies despite not being as big as other sportfish like salmon and pike.

By releasing these magnificent fish back into the water, other fishermen have the opportunity to experience the thrill of catching them as well. It’s important to release them so that they can continue to thrive in the population. These rare fish represent sound management and great genetics.

Overall, practicing catch-and-release fishing ensures the preservation of these magnificent fish, which are slow-growing and take a long time to reach their full potential. By releasing them, we can all contribute to the preservation of these fish and ensure that they continue to thrive for generations to come.

These large fins are unique and allow for easy identification of individual fish. I have recognized quite a few fish thanks to their fins. One particular grayling, measuring 20 inches, had a large portion of its dorsal fin missing. This was an impressive fish, which both my wife and I caught at different times. Molly caught it first, but she couldn’t take a picture with it because she was by herself. A few weeks later, I caught the same fish and made sure to hold it up for the camera.

Another large 20”+ grayling was caught twice last summer. This fish came from the same pool a few months apart. It was one of the largest we caught over the summer. When I compared him to another large one we had caught earlier in the season it was apparent it was the same fish!

My favorite fin from the thousands of grayling I have had the privilege to handle was a very unique one from the Chena River. This fish is around 16”, its dorsal fin is supersized relative to the body. The rounded, tall fin has unique large “bars” of violet and teal. I first encountered this fish in May of 2022. When it hit the net in June 2023, I instantly recognized it. Amazingly, it was caught in the same exact spot and the same fly both times.

Seeing these repeat customers is very rewarding, both as a guide and an angler. When I recognize a fish I am assured that the fight and handling of the fish prior was not detrimental to its health. These trophy-sized grayling are truly a once-in-a-lifetime fish to many of the anglers I have the pleasure of guiding. It makes my day to see the joy on their faces as they realize they have just caught a special fish.  I hope to continue to run into these and other fish time and time again. It is solid proof of the effectiveness of catch and release.