Is Catch-and-Release an Effective Conservation Tool?

Interview starts at 51:28

This week’s podcast is a spirited discussion with Dr. Andy Danylchuk, Professor of Fish Conservation at UMass Amherst and science advisor to organizations like Keep Fish Wet and Bonefish Tarpon Trust.  My question to Andy was the effectiveness of catch-and-release as a conservation tool, and as always when talking with a scientist it depends on your definitions.  Like “What is conservation?” and predictably that varies with a person’s biases and experiences.  I thought it was a thought-provoking conversation and hope you do was well.

In the Fly Box this week, we have these questions and tips:

How do you put the hackle on a Stimulator? What’s the best way to be ready for smaller cutthroats or big bull trout at the same time? How can I maximize my success when fishing with my 4-year-old? How can I plan  trip to fish the Rocky Mountains? Why do I keep losing fish? Where do natural fly tying materials come from? What is the best way to cast big streamers or nymph rigs? What rod do you recommend for fishing Chesapeake Bay? A tip for a great, inexpensive seine for trout streams Where do you draw the line between ethical and unethical use of electronics when fishing? What do you think of ultra-light fly fishing? Should I get a saddle or cape for tying flies? Do you recommend upgrading to a premium fly-tying vise? Can you explain the difference between tailwaters, headwaters, and freestone rivers?