Encouraging a Change in Tradition: Take Part in the "No Dry Fish July" Initiative!
The fifth annual No Fish Dry July campaign, organised by Keep Fish Wet, is underway, and it's encouraging anglers to practice catch-and-release fishing throughout July. This initiative aims to protect fish populations, support sustainability, and maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems.
Executive Director of Keep Fish Wet, Sascha Clark Danylchuk, explains that the campaign is about giving fish a fighting chance, particularly during hot weather when water temperatures rise, especially for coldwater species. The emphasis on catch-and-release fishing aligns with conservation goals and responsible fishing ethics.
The importance of No Fish Dry July lies in its contribution to fish conservation and sustainable fishing practices. By encouraging anglers to release all caught fish, the campaign helps reduce fish mortality and supports healthy fish populations. This is crucial for maintaining fish stocks for future generations and ensuring the ecological balance of aquatic environments.
Catch-and-release fishing minimises harm to fish, allowing them to survive and reproduce after being caught. The campaign raises awareness about the importance of protecting fish populations and maintaining the quality of fishing experiences by promoting stewardship and respect for natural resources.
Keep Fish Wet is offering a giveaway for participants in the No Fish Dry July campaign. To enter, anglers are invited to post fish-less photos on Instagram with the hashtags #NoFishDryJuly and #KeepFishWet. Instead of fish photos, anglers are encouraged to share other aspects of fishing, such as river landscapes, dogs waiting on the bank, or successful flies.
During the campaign, Keep Fish Wet will share tips on how to handle fish during hot weather to reduce stress and increase survival rates. The tips will include information on how to spot heat-stressed fish, how to handle them quickly, and why skipping photos can make a difference for fish conservation. The campaign encourages anglers not to take fish out of the water for photos.
Brief air exposure increases recovery time and mortality rates for fish after release, according to Keep Fish Wet. Therefore, the campaign is not about spoiling fishing fun but about helping conserve fish for future generations. It's about taking pride in releasing fish without photos as a way to help them swim off strong.
For those interested in the science behind the campaign, more information can be found on the Keep Fish Wet website ([www.keepfishwet.org](http://www.keepfishwet.org)). The organisation is running its fifth annual No Fish Dry July campaign, and it's an excellent opportunity for anglers to contribute to fish conservation while enjoying their favourite pastime.
Transferring his passion for fishing to other aspects of his life, Sascha Clark Danylchuk, Executive Director of Keep Fish Wet, has transformed his home-and-garden to reflect a relaxed lifestyle centered around responsible fishing practices. Incorporating a catch-and-release fish pond into his backyard, Sascha aims to demonstrates the concept of No Fish Dry July within the comforts of his own home.
