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5. Unhooking and returning fish to the water

Learn how to safely unhook your fish, including how to use a disgorger. Keep your fish healthy by either returning it to the water immediately or placing it in a keepnet for a short time.

Things to remember

  • Use a disgorger when a fish is deeply hooked.

  • Always handle fish gently and carefully.

  • Return all fish to the water.

  • Stay safe. It's safer to fish as part of a group, and children must always have the permission of a parent or guardian.

  • Before you go fishing you need a rod licence if you are 12 years of age or older. You also need permission from the fishery owner/angling club.

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Last Edited: 24 December 2020

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