How to Safely and Properly Land and Release Billfish
Now that we’ve been bitten by the offshore fishing bug, we want to fully partake in the experience, everything from gaffing fish to rigging baits. However, we’re not quite ready to release the fish solo in a manner that is safe for us and safe for the marlin or sailfish in question.
Part of the issue is that they are so much bigger than fish like the bass we catch at home. Furthermore, as their name suggests, they have sharp bills that can be used as weapons. Here are links to a few of the disasters that have befallen unfortunate anglers and crew members:
The one who is typically in the most danger is the “wireman,” the guy who grabs the leader and subdues the fish. The mates in Guatemala and Panama make it look easy, but if you can’t let go of the loops when a fish surges, it’s possible to get taken into the drink and drowned. Here are some basic guides to that skill:
Even if you manage to get the fish to the boat without you or your boatmates getting injured. It’s still critical to handle the fish properly to ensure that it’s released in good health. Billfish are too valuable to be caught only once. That’s why most responsible lodges and countries discourage or outlaw taking the fish out of the water. Below are some more resources that’ll help you understand the hows and whys of billfish release:
