Ellie C&R By Firecat

As we are going into a very limited regulated season (One Fish per person per day) for Elephant Fish Callorhinchus milii
I was thinking that C&R will be very important for ensuring that when chasing a big Ellie small models are released ASAP
Put together for those contimplaiting chasing the Ghosties on their arrival into Western Port, Corio and along the Western shores of Port Philip (Point Wilson area)is a simple how too !!
Elephants are not the most hardy of fishies and expell a lot of energy during the fight. Light Line captures take their toll as the fish is often let run over and over to (In my view) to give the angler a feel that these "wet rags" fight well.
THEY DON'T...Get them in quickly and apply the listed below stratigy and let em go.

Increasing the
survival of
released fish
• Hook damage is the most
significant cause of fish dying after
being released.
• Deep-hooked(gills, gut) fish are far
less likely to survive.
• Fish with a tight line so that fish
are less likely to swallow the hook.
• Increase the size of your hooks to
prevent small fish swallowing them.
• Avoid suspending fish on the hook.
Hook removal
• Fish hooked in the mouth or lip
have the best chance of survival.
• Remove the hook with pliers or a
de-hooking tool.
• If you can’t see the whole hook
protruding from the mouth of the
fish don’t try and remove it.
• Cut the line and release the fish.
When releasing your
catch...
• Wet your hands before handling
the fish
• Avoid touching the gills and eyes
• Return the fish as quickly as
possible


Regards Steve