How deep is too deep to catch and safely release a fish? What about different species? Does anyone know of any scientific data on this? I remember hearing that anything over 20 ft and the fish will probably die if released. Is that true or just speculation?
Thanks,
fishmagnet
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Most of the time perch swim bladder will expand and they can't go back down , even if they try . Last sunday I caught one perch and it was so small I dropped it in the hole and watched it swim all the way down to the bottom on my fishfinder and it hit my sons pole . Now it is in my freezer . Not sure of the info on how deep to not release a fish , but I was fishing in 32 feet and most of the time perch can't swim down after being brought back up fast like that . I had them expand in about 18' deep water before .
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It all depends upon the species. Usually, you can release a trout from any depth. They have a more well developed swim bladder than other species. Large mouth, Small mouth and most sea bass are permanently damaged if you bring them up 50+ feet. Out at Blue Lakes 3 years ago I had one bass' bladder come out when he was at the 20-22 foot depth, and killed him mid-way up. I've never had a blue gill do that. Also, with carp and catfish, it happens very rarely. I make a point to NEVER fish over 10' depth for bass, walleye and perch if I don't want to keep them.
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In general, I think you're ok if the bladder isn't extruded through the mouth. There are some speices that don't have bladders though. Just my dos centavos.
Good Releasing, Kayote
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