1. Play fish firmly
Use tackle appropriate to the fish and conditions so the fight is not unnecessarily prolonged.
Fish welfare
Catch & Release
Careful handling helps ensure that trout and grayling are returned to Gilling Beck in the best possible condition.
Look after every fish
GWFF operates catch and release. Good fish handling starts before the fish is hooked: use suitable tackle, barbless hooks and have forceps and a landing net ready.
Bring the fish to the net promptly, keep it in the water whenever possible, wet your hands before touching it, avoid squeezing it and remove the hook quickly. If a photograph is taken, keep air exposure to an absolute minimum.
Simple catch-and-release routine
2. Keep fish wet
Use a landing net and leave the fish in the water while preparing to unhook it.
3. Handle gently
Wet your hands, support the fish from underneath and avoid touching the bank or gravel.
4. Release strongly
Face the fish into the current and allow it to recover before letting it swim away.
Warm water: when the beck is unusually warm or low, fish can be under additional stress. If conditions are unsuitable, the best welfare decision may be not to fish.