HANDLING FLUKE - Striper Talk Striped Bass Fishing, Surfcasting, Boating

DRUMCORPFAN · 07-10-2002, 10:27 AM

What is the best way to pick up fluke once I land one? I have gone on a charter boat were the mate scooped them over the rail with a net. Should I invest in a net, Or is it ok to grab them from the gills. I will be surf fishing for fluke. Thanks

JohnR · 07-10-2002, 11:07 AM

I don't think it is good to handle any fish by the gills if you plan to release it. Wipes the protective film off the gills when you handle them.

I'd try a net, guess you don't want to lip 'em, eh

?

BassmanN · 07-10-2002, 11:45 AM

I use the berkley lip tool.
Just like a Boga grip...$100 less.
Doesn't bother the fish at all.

fishsmith · 07-10-2002, 01:23 PM

* Long needle nose pliers,
* a strong grip behind the eyes,
* take the hook out in the same place you measure it
(16 1/2" min in Ma.),
* work fast.

The small ones I've released do swim away, but I think a gut hooked fish is dead no matter how careful you are.

Scotch Bonnet · 07-10-2002, 06:22 PM

Net is the best as these flatties have a knack of throwing the hook once you get them near the surface. Its heartbreaking to see dinner spit the hook and swim away!

DRUMCORPFAN · 07-11-2002, 08:51 AM

Thanks for the help john,bassmann ,fishsmith and scotch. The info you provided will be used.